Pros: I had a printer connected thru the network before using this cable to connect it directly to this computer, so the printer drivers were already installed. I plugged the printer in when the computer was off. After turning the computer on, the printer was installed and ready to use. I didn't even see a notice that it was being installed. All I had to do was set it as my default printer.

Cons: None, my printer seems to print faster and I had no problems.

Other Thoughts: The other 2 people who had problems with this cable may have been confused about drivers. The Windows 95/98 drivers are probably only USB drivers, which XP and higher already have built-in and are not needed. The drivers needed are most likely printer drivers. It's usually best to install printer drivers before connecting the printer. In the past with other computers, I've had problems installing printer drivers, had to do it 2 or 3 times to get it to work.
It could be there was nothing wrong with this cable for these other people. But cables sometimes are bad, though I can't remember ever having a bad one myself. USB ports are also sometimes bad; I have encountered this a few times. Try plugging the cable into a different USB port if it doesn't work. To test a USB port, plug something else (such as a flash drive) into the USB port to see if that works.

Pros: My Windows Xp found the cable and installed it automatically. Flawless

Cons: Just a little short but I used a usb extention cable to solve that problem.

Other Thoughts: I think people expect this cable to solve their usb printer problems but if you don't know what usb port it sets up on you can have problems. You have to load the printer driver on the correct USB port. USB ports still get confused and that confuses most computer users.

Pros: Well... they have the cable/technology to connect printers via USB if you need to. That's the only pro I can think of. Had to try this out since it was the only one of it's kind on NewEgg atm.

Cons: After giving it a try and taking the time to get this connected, it turns out you actually need the drivers to get this cable working. It is asking for drivers of a "ECP Printer Port". I have Windows XP 32-bit Home Edition on my laptop and I thought I could get my old HP OfficeJet T45 connected to it. I was able to get the software and everything connected, but unfortunately... the drivers are needed and are only available for Windows 95/98/NT. There are no drivers available for XP/Vista like their website said (http://www.byteccusa.com/product/adapter/USB-1284/USB-1284.htm). I have already tried the Windows 95/98/NT drivers and I cannot find a way around it. This needs an upgrade since more and more users are using the latest operating systems. Otherwise, this product shouldn't be listed. Sending this product back for a refund.

Other Thoughts: Exactly what Cphood said. Don't buy this product until the manufacturer can come up with the driver for the latest operating systems that works. If you have the Windows 95/98/NT operating system on your computer, give it a try. Otherwise, the trouble involved isn't necessary. It seems simple enough to the point where you can set it all up and you'll be ready to go... but this might not be exactly what you would have in mind... and might not be what you paid for. Just a word of caution before you buy and try it out. GL if you do!

Pros: Physically connects a printer 1284 connector to a USB port

Cons: Didn't work, poor customer service. Connected a HP 820 Cse inkjet printer using windows vista and linux. Printer was recognized by both systems, drivers loaded successfully and ready print message rec. When print was selected nothing happened. Printer works correctly in windows xp with a 1284 to 1284 interface.

Other Thoughts: Manufacturers web site states that windows vista and 7 are supported. The only interface software available on furnished disk or web site is for windows 95, 98 and ME. I emailed customer service eight days ago and asked if I needed interface software for the cable to work with windows vista or 7. There has been no reply. It appears I have wasted $16 that I could have used for a printer upgrade.