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Programs that let a computer emulate another have been around for some time now and as with most products, newer versions offer improvements and enhancements. VirtualPC from Connectix is now in it's 3.0 version and it has some significant additions.

VirtualPC 3.0 is designed for Apple's latest G3 and G4 systems and lets them run Windows software. Connectix clearly recommends VirtualPC 3.0 to be run on a G3 or better model only. And because it runs on these faster machines, you can expect VirtualPC 3.0 to run somewhat faster. But as with most software emulators, speed is not one of VirtualPC 3.0's strong points and runs about as fast as a slower Pentium class machine. But if you don't want to play games and other processor intensive programs, VirtualPC 3.0 just might be the ticket for you.

One of VirtualPC 3.0's most important new features is its ability to run Universal Serial Bus (USB) peripherals. USB is fast becoming the new way to connect devices to both PC and Macintosh systems. But until VirtualPC 3.0, you couldn't access your Mac USB hardware through Windows. To make all this work, you'll need Windows 98 on the Windows side and Mac OS9 on the other. Connectix has done a terrific job of making USB operation virtually seamless between both operating systems.

Another nice touch is VirtualPC 3.0's ability to share the Mac's Internet connection. Using the Mac's modem or network TCP/IP connection, you can run both operating systems and give them simultaneous access to the Internet. It's interesting to watch a Windows and Mac browser surfing on one screen. And although the Internet is supposed to be the great platform equalizer, there are still many web sites and browser products that will only work on one platform. Now you can have the best of both worlds.

VirtualPC 3.0 is also capable of running DOS, Windows 3.x, 95 and NT as well as Linux. They all include SoundBlaster 16 support for high quality sound. You can buy versions of VirtualPC 3.0 with DOS ($49.95), Windows 95 ($149) or Windows 98 ($179) preinstalled. If you're looking for a quick and inexpensive to run Windows applications without spending a lot of money, then VirtualPC 3.0 just might fill the stocking very well.

Connectix Corp. www.connectix.com 800-950-5880 or 650-571-5100

More USB holiday fun

Logitech offers two new USB digital video cameras that work on both PC and Macintosh. The QuickCam VC is a jet black little eyeball that comes with programs that let you take a snapshot or capture a full motion image directly to disk. ($79) For those of you who want a finer resolution, there's the QuickCam Pro. Offering a true 640 by 480 resolution, the camera has a built-in microphone and a tilt and swivel base that lets you more easily position the camera. But whichever model you select, adding a camera to your computer is a great way to share your live or captured images over the Interne t with family and friends.

Logitech www.logitech.com 800-231-7717 or 510-795-8500