Will Firewire (IEEE 1394) replace USB?
• No. Although IEEE 1394 is a faster standard for connecting peripherals, it is also much more expensive as a technology. In the future both USB and Firewire will combine to meet the needs of computer users as complimentary technologies. Firewire will be used to connect high-speed video cameras, external hard-drives, and other devices that need more than 12Mb of bandwidth. USB will survive to support printers, scanners, joysticks, modems, keyboards, mice, and other lower speed devices. At approximately 100 times faster than today’s serial ports, USB is in a strong position to give a greater level of speed to users at a much more attractive price.