Increase power to a USB powered device?

Question

I have a device that requires 750ma and none of my machines supply more than 500ma for USB power. The device has no provisions for an external power supply. If I were to splice in a power lead from a 5v 1a DC adapter, would this supply the device with enough power without causing harm?

Answer 1

Here is how the link works:



PC to Device VIA USB - Computing signal and power

PC to Device + Power supply - Computing signal and power.





PC voltage output + External power supply can be < or > the ammount needed. If > then needed then it can be controlled within the device or may cause unwanted results.

If power is < the ammount neeeded then the full functionality of the external or extension device wont be achieved.



:-)

Answer 2

I would not reccomend splicing a power source into your device. The external power source will not provide a clean power source and may damage your USB device or your system.



You could probably use a powered USB hub which would give power to your device independent of what your systems could supply. The USB hub uses external power to supply your devices that are connected.

Answer 3

I don't know if I would try that, for power to be recognized in your system, you would have to make the grounds commom. That means that you will be adding 0.2 amps available to your system. I think it would be a lot safer to install 2.0 adapter card. You should be able to find one with a 750 MA output capability. If not try contacting the support section of the company that made your device via the net.



Good Luck!

Answer 4

Yea, it can be harmful for the extrenal device. But if You use a transistor to bypass the extra current then you'll get the desired current to the device.