“… device incompatibilities with a new generation of
operating systems such as Linux and FreeBSD that run on Intel
processors, formerly the sole domain of Windows, is causing
confusion and anger among consumers.”
“This is because the packaging on many devices such as modems
and printers state they work with Windows, but do not explicitly
say they won’t work with other x86-based operating systems.
“The so-called WinDevices evolved to take advantage of excess
processing power in the CPU. As Pentium-class chips became faster,
they spent more of their time idle.”