Can USB3 power 3.5" External HDD's?

xera

xera

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Well I'm sure you all know that USB3 provides more power than USB2.. But is it enough to power 3.5" HDD's, where a AC power plug is normally needed?

And can you get external HDD's now that support this? EG, with USB2, use plug for power, and with USB3, just draw the power from the USB3?

I saw some HDD's at rAge, but wasn't sure, and neither were the salesmen.
 
Nein, 2.5amps at 12volt aprox for a 3.5" Drive is a very gentle estimate,USB 3 will push about 0.9amps at 5volt,you'd have to strap a few of these puppies together

You'd be better served to make an external molex plug if you want to be adventurous :P
 
At the moment only eSATAp (Powered eSATA) can provide enough power for a 3.5".

Supposedly, USB power spec is going to change soon, though, and then would be able to, but don't hold your breath since it will be a year or so I reckon.
 
Rudimental, eSATAp cannot power 3.5" drives! I've tested this with my colleague's laptop using a eSATAp bracket. It worked with a 2.5" drive though.
 
If USB3 gives more power - do you think it'd help with my Cell C dongle on an extention cable?
 
PsyWulf said:
Dear RBC,please read the OP before posting,the devices you posted all use external power adapters
Click to expand...

Like, yes it can as long as you use an external power adapter.

Comprehension fail!
 
Thanks for the replies all... Don't know if eSATA would work, do most external HDD's even support it, along with the power connection?

Molex to the round plug thing could be the answer, not sure if the power rating is the same though, or how standard the plug size is.
 
Pada said:
Rudimental, eSATAp cannot power 3.5" drives! I've tested this with my colleague's laptop using a eSATAp bracket. It worked with a 2.5" drive though.
Click to expand...

Some laptops do not output enough power over eSATAp to power 3.5" drives because the port is not wired for 12v and only for the 5v USB standard.
 
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