How Brain-Computer Interfaces Work

Imagine being able to transmit signals directly into a blind person's brain that would allow him to see. For severely disabled people, the brain-computer interface could be the most important technological breakthrough in decades.

How do I add another USB device to my computer if I am out of USB ports?

Running out of USB ports is annoying, but it doesn't have to stop you from adding components to your computer. Check out this list of USB accessories and learn how to get them connected.

How Parallel Ports Work

OK, so they're not as popular as the USB port these days. But the parallel port is still a very common way to connect a printer to a PC. Learn how parallel ports operate and how they came about.

How Sound Cards Work

Sound cards truly ushered PCs into the world of multimedia. Before the invention of the sound card, a PC could only beep! Learn how a sound card allows a computer to create and record high-quality sound.

How Thought-Controlled Wheelchairs Work

In the not-too-distant future, disabled people could be able to control a motorized wheelchair, the Audeo, with only their thoughts. How could the same technology also restore speech to people who are unable to talk?

How Webcams Work

Webcam shots range from the silly to the serious -- a Webcam might point at a television or a space shuttle launch pad. There are business cams, personal cams, private cams, traffic cams ... You name it and there's probably a Webcam pointed at it.