Adding external drive to older PC?

[margrio]

I have a fairly old computer with windows 98 SE.I would like to add extra storage in the form of an external hard drive. Some of them say they are compatible with windows 98 but I have tried 2 different drives so far ,one from Misco the other from Maplins and so far no luck with either..Does anyone know of any make of external hard drive that genuinely will work with my older computer.?(Pentium 3)
Would trying to plug in the usb of the external drive to a hub have anything to do with my lack of success?
Thanking anyone who can provide me with any help.

[fo3nix]

The issue isn't the drives, it's the lack of good USB support on 98SE. Manufacturers should put 98 drivers on their website for their products though, which you'll be able to download.

Also, do you have USB1 or 2 ports? If it's only 1 (as it may well be), you'll face lots of speed issues.

The hub may be some issue: you should try conneting straight to the computer. Is the hub powered?

[ACtheTROLL]

fo3 is right
usb1 = 12 Mb/s (max)
usb2 = 480 Mb/s.
the drivers may be available .... but don't take them for granted .... check before you buy.
Use an on board USB port.
but even so if it is a USB1 ... you'll be pulling your hair out.
Alternatively how about a NAS (network attached storage) box instead .... a little more expensive ... but no driver issues and if you don't have one a 100Mb/s nic is only about �3.99.

A NAS box will also DEFINATELY work when you get a new machine .... and you can share files with anyone else on the network also

[furnitureman]

There are many solutions. Usb is possibly the easiest. May be a fat32 limitation on the largest drive you can attach under W98 of 64gig. With W98 you need a driver but Win2000 and above will sense the new device without.