3rd party generic USB2-to-Ethernet adapters?

http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.21224

http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.32289

There you go.

Fishrrman said:

Hello all -

Has anyone tried one of these generic USB2-to-Ethernet devices with MBAir?
http://cgi.ebay.com/USB2-0-to-RJ45-...emQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item27a89b4ee3

I don't imagine that it comes with the proper drivers, but there are device drivers available here:
http://www.sustworks.com/site/news_usb_ethernet.html
Whether they'll do the job, can't say without trying.

I'm interested in a device that doesn't have a cord attached. Want to plug it into something "dongle-like" such as this:
http://www.amazon.com/High-Speed-4-...1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1268445819&sr=8-1

Thus, with the USB/Ethernet device plugged in, it will reduce the tangle of cables, and still leave me 3 potential USB ports. (Though not sure how well the other ports will work, since the USB dongle/hub is UNpowered.)

Thanks,
- John

Click to expand...

That one with four separate connectors via one USB port is pretty cool. It should work with the Ethernet but will not work with an MBA SuperDrive.

Good luck.

Fishrrman said:

RE:
"That one with four separate connectors via one USB port is pretty cool. It should work with the Ethernet but will not work with an MBA SuperDrive."

I wasn't going to be buying an Apple-brand external SuperDrive, anyway.

I'll use a 3rd-party USB DVD/CD burner, and will pick up one that can be extenally-powered, as well as bus-powered.

I'll probably also get a powered hub as well.

Has no one tried a 3rd-party ethernet adapter? Preferably one of the "small" variety (i.e., like the one shown in the link in the original post)?

Click to expand...

I would buy an external Blu Ray Drive. It is fully backwards compatible, but also has the ability to work as Blu Ray now if you use Windows via Boot Camp. In addition, if Apple ever gives a crap about its users they will at least create OS level support to play and burn Blu Ray Disks. Even if Apple doesn't want to affect its margins, it can at least let its users play the game via external or third party devices. I personally don't understand why Apple doesn't sell it for a ridiculous amount as BTO option and just sell it as a $500 option. It could make money, and its customers would be happy. Mac customers just want options!