USB devices Archives

Winsage

March 26, 2025

An open-source Windows alternative you’ve probably never heard of just got updated

ReactOS 0.4.15 is the largest release to date, focusing on compatibility, bug fixes, and improved system stability. It introduces new features such as registry mechanisms, enhanced security, and improvements to system tools. The release supports 64-bit x86 architecture and includes significant updates to the Plug and Play Manager, audio enhancements, and better memory management. Users can now boot from USB devices and utilize more third-party drivers. The update also features quality-of-life improvements in tools like Notepad and Paint, and a new visual style. Future upgrades are promised, including power management and UEFI support. ReactOS 0.4.15 is available for download, but it remains in alpha status.

Tech Optimizer

March 25, 2025

Kapersky Internet Security and Antivirus Review 2025

Kaspersky Anti-Virus features a user-friendly interface organized into four main sections: scan, database update, reports, and an on-screen keyboard. The on-screen keyboard enhances privacy when entering sensitive data, protecting against keyloggers. The Reports section provides an overview of scanning activities and includes data from the System Watcher feature, which can mitigate malware attacks. The Database Update section allows for automatic updates to keep the software current with the latest threats, with options for manual scheduling. The scan menu includes a Quick Scan that completes in about seven minutes and a Full Scan that can take several hours; both scans detected all actual malware during testing. Additional scanning options include selective scans and removable drive scans. The software allows for high customization, including a "Gamer Mode" that defers scheduled scans during full-screen applications. It also postpones tasks during battery operation or high disk activity and offers an option to opt out of promotional offers.

Winsage

March 2, 2025

Microsoft shares more information about USB settings in Windows 11

In 2023, Windows 11 introduced official USB4 support with data transfer speeds of 40Gbps, later expanded to 80 and 120Gbps. A dedicated Settings page for managing USB4 devices and hubs was added. Recent updates included connection notifications for issues, alerts for slow charging due to incompatible chargers, a USB battery saver feature for energy conservation, and a section detailing connected USB4 devices. These settings are located under Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > USB, with some features being device-specific.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Microsoft battles more bugs in Windows 11 24H2 with new round of patches

Microsoft released an optional update, KB5052093, for Windows 11 24H2 to address persistent bugs. Users may need to manually download and install this update as it is being rolled out gradually. The update includes fixes for File Explorer, improving performance with media files, context menu response for cloud files, and the reliability of the address bar. It resolves issues with color displays in the Start menu, hard drive misidentification in Task Manager, Guest account sign-ins, custom mouse pointer colors after UAC prompts, and audio bugs related to volume spikes and USB devices. Connectivity issues with Remote Desktop and display rendering problems have been fixed, along with improvements to drag-and-drop functionality and an error message in the Settings screen. New features include file sharing from the Taskbar jump list, simultaneous camera access for multiple applications, enhancements to Windows Narrator for easier navigation, and a more user-friendly Windows Spotlight. A referral card for PC Game Pass may also appear for eligible users. The update can be checked via Settings under Windows Update, and the official version will be released on March 11.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Nintendo’s GameCube Gets a Productivity Makeover Thanks to a PowerPC Windows NT Port

Rairii has successfully ported Windows NT 3.51 to the Nintendo GameCube, allowing the console to run this operating system. The project supports Windows NT 3.51 RTM and higher, while earlier beta versions require kernel patches. Windows NT 3.5 is incompatible due to its support for the PowerPC 601 architecture. The GameCube, powered by an IBM PowerPC "Gekko" chip, can now function as a desktop computer with a graphical user interface, controlled via a standard controller or keyboard. The project includes support for the GameCube's keyboard controller accessory and a mapping system for navigation. Some USB device support is available, but without hotplugging functionality. Instructions for the project are provided in a GitHub repository, and users need specific hardware to participate.

Winsage

February 26, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 now blocked on PCs running older AutoCAD software

Users of Autodesk’s AutoCAD 2022 are unable to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 due to bootup complications. Microsoft has blocked the automatic delivery of this update for systems with AutoCAD 2022 installed, while users with other versions of AutoCAD can upgrade without issues. Microsoft has a history of implementing similar blocks for compatibility concerns and is currently working on a solution for the AutoCAD 2022 issue. Users can manually download and install Windows 11 24H2 on machines with AutoCAD 2022, but Microsoft advises against it.

AppWizard

February 5, 2025

Version 2.0 of the Blackmagic Camera app for Android is introduced – TV y Video Latinoamérica

Blackmagic Design has released version 2.0 of its Blackmagic Camera app for Android, which is compatible with devices like the Xiaomi Pad 6 and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series. The update allows users to remotely monitor and control multiple devices simultaneously, configure any compatible device as a controller, and supports high-frame-rate recording at 120 and 240 fps for Sony Xperia devices. The app is available for free on Google Play and offers intuitive controls for adjusting parameters such as frame rate, shutter angle, white balance, and ISO sensitivity. It supports high-resolution recording up to 8K on the Blackmagic Cloud platform and features a quick setup for instant recording. The interface displays essential information and allows users to toggle overlays and focus easily.

Winsage

December 21, 2024

Best Windows apps this week

Microsoft has identified new issues affecting the upgrade to Windows 11's version 24H2, including a glitch with Auto HDR that may cause game freezes and color distortions. Start11 has been updated to reintroduce vertical taskbars, allowing users to position the taskbar on the left or right side of the screen, with a beta release expected to become final soon. USBCopy is a new tool that allows users to copy files from a designated folder to up to 20 USB devices simultaneously, ensuring data integrity by verifying correct file copying.

Winsage

December 14, 2024

Microsoft will still let Windows 11 users send a fax, should they ever want that

Microsoft resolved a connectivity issue affecting eSCL devices, including USB-connected scanners and fax machines, for users who upgraded to Windows 11, version 24H2. A compatibility hold was implemented to prevent complications, which was first reported on November 22. On December 10, Microsoft announced that the hold (ID 54762729) would be lifted, allowing users to upgrade without concerns, with some devices receiving the update within 48 hours. As of now, Windows 11 accounts for approximately 34.9% of all Windows installations, while Windows 10 holds a 61.8% share.

Winsage

December 12, 2024

The Windows 11 24H2 update is no longer blocked on these PCs

Microsoft has lifted the safeguard hold on the Windows 11 24H2 update for certain PCs that were previously affected by compatibility issues with USB scanners and devices. The initial block was a precautionary measure due to problems with devices supporting the eSCL protocol, which were unrecognizable and unusable. The rollout of the 24H2 update was paused, and users were advised against manual installations. The underlying issues were resolved with the release of the KB5048667 cumulative update on December 10, 2024. Users can expect to receive the update within the next two days or restart their PCs to expedite the process.