I have a 2.5 inch SATA SSD that I want to power from an internal USB port. The SSD requires 5 volts, so I see this as being possible.

I already have the data connection for the SSD, I just need to power it over USB. I know this is possible because I have a PCMCIA card for a different machine that draws power from a USB port in this manner.

Are these types of cables already in production somewhere? If so, where?

If they're not (I haven't found any), what would I need to do to create one? I'm unfamiliar with how SATA power cables are wired out and don't want to fry my USB card with novice testing when I have the chance of getting insight from a SU expert.


Update: I don't want data travelling over USB. As I have a SATA data cable ready for this drive, I will be mounting it in the case and running the power to an internal USB cable.

I thank all of you for your answers regarding buying an external USB case for this drive, but that's not the question I'm asking.

link|improve this question

Typically, one would use an eSATA port to provide both power and data to the drive. Most eSATA ports also double as a USB port. Note that because of the power differences in laptops and desktops, laptops have limitations on what devices they can power in this manor. – earthmeLon Nov 16 '11 at 19:57
@earthmeLon I have yet to see eSATA provide power. Do you have a link with information on this? – Luke Nov 16 '11 at 20:02
If you are mounting it inside the case, then why would you be trying to use USB power, and not pulling directly from the power supply? – Zoredache Nov 16 '11 at 21:33
Why not? I know this is possible and this may have useful application in the future. – Kalamane Nov 16 '11 at 22:02
@earthmeLon: AFAIK, you need a Power over eSata to get enough power spin a harddrive off of one port. – surfasb Nov 17 '11 at 3:47
show 3 more comments
feedback

Know someone who can answer? Share a link to this question via email, Google+, Twitter, or Facebook.

Your Answer

 
or
required, but never shown

Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.