Bronze keyboard PowerBooks: USB-to-Parallel adapter bug?; flimsy keyboard fix?

USB problem on PowerBooks related to Epson USB printer drivers? One reported problem with USB devices on the new "bronze keyboard" PowerBook G3 Macs is that the devices may have to be unplugged and replugged in before they can be recognized after startup. A posting on Apple's Tech Exchange (noted by Perry Clark) offered a cause and potential work-around. The problem appears restricted to having installed the Epson USB-to-Parallel adapter (although this is not certain). The suggested work-around was to disable the Epson printer drivers. This worked for Perry. However, this will prevent you from using your Epson printer.

Brent Davis sent us a related note: "We have isolated a problematic USB bug when using a new PowerBook G3 and an Epson printer via a 'USB-to-Parallel' printer adapter cord. It appears that any time you plug the cord into one of the USB ports, it will cause the computer to disable both of the ports upon startup or restarting (even if no printer is connected at the parallel end). I have tried the Epson, Interex, and Belkin branded cords and all exhibit this problem. Thus I believe Apple must find a solution on making it's OS (through a software update) more compatible with these widely used cords. Current workaround? Only plug in the cord when you need to print. And don't forget to unplug it before shutting down or restarting."

PowerBook keyboard fix? I do not have a new PowerBook on hand to confirm this, but Renee Mancino offers the following tip for those who have complained about a "flimsy keyboard" on the new PowerBook G3 Macs: "Apple ships these Macs with the keyboards 'unlocked.' As a result they feel flimsy and loose when typed on. There is a little screw on the back panel with a 'lock' next to it. If you turn the screw clockwise until it is just tight this will 'lock' the keyboard into place. The difference will amaze users that are not aware of this issue." [Yvan Poulin has now confirmed this.]