[plug] transfer some files between NT4 machines and linux

[Bill Kenworthy]

There are some commercial drivers listed on the net (~$US39), but not a
lot of choice.  The machines are currently networked, but USB keys are
easier, especially for casual visitors use where data needs to be
transferred between workplaces by non-technical types (they often have
their own keys).  We currently use CD's, but not all machines have
CDwriters, and they are clumsy compared to USB keys.  Not worried about
security coming in that much because of what the machines do (instrument
control), and the selected people that are qualified to use them - just
trying to make mismatched hardware easier to use for them with $0
investment, and no complex overlays that tend to need TLC to continue to
operate.

Have tried shared drives in the past but thats proven problematic in
this environment.

Oh well ...

Billk

On Thu, 2004-04-08 at 12:55, Denis Brown wrote:
> Hello, Bill.
> 
> On Thu, 8 Apr 2004, Bill Kenworthy wrote:
> 
> > I am trying to transfer some files between NT4 machines and linux using
> > a USB key.  Just found out that NT4 doesnt support USB and the only
> > add-on packages seem to be propriety.  Does anyone have any suggestions
> > or reccomendations on a driver that works?
> >
> I see that Leon Blackwell and Craig Ringer have replied and all I would
> add is that AFAIK the only USB drivers are proprietary ones (eg the IBM
> mouse and floppy disk drivers for their later laptops).   I use a lot of
> NT4 and have so far successfully fended off people who think they need
> USB.   I know there are suppliers for (for instance) FireWire cards that
> allegedly suit NT4 and I have tried to get hold of their API tools,
> unsuccessfully so far - they want $$ and Universities are notoriously
> unwilling to part with $$ it seems.   NT4 should be able to be encouraged
> to support USB / FireWire or so I perhaps niaively think!   But back to
> your case...
> 
> If Craig's / Leon's ideas regards regards network access / CD-ROM access
> are not possible (a dedicated controller machine for a scientific
> instrument, perhaps), how about parallel or serial communication from an
> el cheapo Linux device that understands USB.   I'm thinking of one of the
> Netway Computers' Wizard boxes, here.   Okay, it's a bit of extra
> hardware but that might get you out of strife.   Another thought along the
> USB / serial line might be a gadget such as DonTronics sells, a USB/Serial
> converter.   Not sure if this is possible though in your situation.
> 
> A bit more info on what you're trying to do with this "USB key" thing
> might stimulate a few more neurons :-)   For example is there any absolute
> requirement to use the USB pathway?   You mention the transfer of files,
> so maybe the plain vanilla parallel / serial access thingy might work for
> you.   Of course a network card popped into the NT4 machine could be the
> easiest way forward.
> 
> Cheers,
> Denis
> 
> 
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