Why does my external HD have 2 USB connectors?

KingOvok · KingOvok #1 (**permalink**)

01-23-2010, 02:29 PM

Picked up an external HD and the cable ends in two USB connectors, about four inches apart. Am I supposed to hook both of these up to the computer?

clayneal · clayneal #2 (**permalink**)

01-23-2010, 02:38 PM

It would appear that your new enclosure requires more power then can be drawn from a single USB port. Some come with two usb some with a wall plug. If yours comes with two USB then you can see if it will work with just one but your best bet is to just plug them both in.

Clay

harryb2448 · harryb2448 #3 (**permalink**)

01-23-2010, 03:55 PM

Mains power is always the best option as it can happen the demand on USB ports is simply too much.

KingOvok · KingOvok #4 (**permalink**)

01-23-2010, 05:26 PM

Oh, yup. It's an extra power issue. I never had a prob with just one plug on my laptop here but tried it on an older computer and that's just the issue. Thanks for the head's up.

clayneal #2 (permalink)
Member Since: Mar 27, 2009 Location: Lincoln Nebraska Posts: 2,146 Mac Specs: late 08 macbook 2.0 4gig 320hdd10.7.3 32 gig iPhone 4s	01-23-2010, 02:38 PM It would appear that your new enclosure requires more power then can be drawn from a single USB port. Some come with two usb some with a wall plug. If yours comes with two USB then you can see if it will work with just one but your best bet is to just plug them both in. Clay MY ADVICE COMES WITH A DOUBLE YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEE!
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KingOvok #1 (permalink)
Member Since: Nov 24, 2007 Posts: 62	01-23-2010, 02:29 PM Picked up an external HD and the cable ends in two USB connectors, about four inches apart. Am I supposed to hook both of these up to the computer?
	QUOTE Thanks

KingOvok #4 (permalink)
Member Since: Nov 24, 2007 Posts: 62	01-23-2010, 05:26 PM Oh, yup. It's an extra power issue. I never had a prob with just one plug on my laptop here but tried it on an older computer and that's just the issue. Thanks for the head's up.
	QUOTE Thanks

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