Yet another external harddrive post and I know it's not as good as the Big W/OfficeWorks one a couple of weeks ago and you can get 640GB samsung for $139 @ Fluidtek now. But I'm just sharing for those that aren't subscribed to their email notifications.
is it just me, or does this HDD use up 2 USB ports?
the image on the site shows the cable with 2 usb plugs, which suggests it would use up 2 ports.
Most usb hdd's use 2 plugs for power. (Most usb ports will only provide up to ~300mA (?) of power. A hdd needs more than that, and needs power in a stable supply to function properly.
While most hard drives will 'work' when using a single plug, it's always safer to use both.
The Western Digital Passport series only use a single cable… one thing that stopped me short of buying this one - hate those Y USB cables.
You can always just replace the cable yourself… its a standard! should only cost a few dollars!
The second plug is for USB1.0 computers or laptops! ( for USB1.0 you need to plug both connection in to power the drive )
USB 2.0 will have enough power to power it with just one connected.
So unless your laptop or PC is older then 3 years ( or doesnt have USB2.0 ) you shouldnt have any problems with just one plugs in.
SOLD OUT Thank you for your support!!
edit: i was wrong sorry I thought this was better than big W deal. (I was sure it was a 120gb drive there, but i was wrong, thus edited my post)