Help, Can I jazz old Compaq up with usb adapter?

[tomlu01]

I have a Compaq Armada 1590, very old laptop, runing on P I MMX and windows ME. but it's still pretty functional. it lacks USB, and I am thinking of buying a PC card USB adapter to add USB capabilities. is this feasible? after I install the adapter, can I use everything that has USB interface, like CD drive, flash drive, external HDD etc.?

I have a exernal HDD with battery and Smart Card Readers, 'cause someone cautions that with PC card USB adapter you need to power it with DC connection to run those USB devices, but since my external HDD has self power, does that mean I dont have to use additional DC since I cant find a DC connection when on road.

thanks.

[Paul Komski]

USB2 PCMCIA cards work well and yes any USB devices should work from them once the drivers have been properly installed for the card. Power output (as you have already indicated) can be the most problematic area and some come with an accessory power cord but since your external HDD has a separate power supply that shouldnt be a problem.

[tomlu01]

thanks for your quick advice, I am going to buy one for my laptop.