USB Charging
More and more peripherals are using batteries that recharge through the USB port. I recommend getting an inexpensive powered USB hub for that charging and take the drain off the motherboard's USB hub. The powered USB hubs are around $20-$25 and I can get them for you if you like, or you can pick one up at Circuit City, Amazon, Office Depot or any other place that sells consumer electronics. Be sure it is powered and supports USB 2.
I leave mine on top of my computer to provide easy access, and leave short connection cables in the ports. This way I can easily connect my mini speakers (used with my MP3 player), my MP3 player, my camera and any other device quickly and easily without even bending over.
This is a picture of my hub along with its permanently attached cables.
Dated: October 2008