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smassie

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Dec 7, 2009
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Wichita, KS
I've browsed through the posts here and hope this isn't a redundant post, but I'm almost certain it is.

I've decided on V4L for my introduction into the world of vaping. I have just a quick question if you don't mind.

Aside from ordering the kits, would a pass through and some carts to try them out? I don't want to spend the $40 on the lowest priced kit without knowing I will even want to stick with it. I know that the pass through will be limited as far as portability goes but that will be ok to start.

Summary for the skimmers (HEY I'm one too, I can relate).
Can I order a pass through and some carts to give this thing a whirl?

Thank you.
 

flying low

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Randyrtx

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I also went the PT route for my initial order to try out cartomizers, it really is the cheapest way to go. I highly recommend it.

Be aware however, that not all PC USB ports are created equal. Some may provide the power needed for the PT, and some may provide no power at all (because they shut down due to excessive current draw), or will not provide enough power for the PT to perform satisfactorily. Personally, my inner engineer prevents me from trying my PT directly on a PC port for fear of damaging the PC.

Not to worry, because you still have some options. Either a USB wall charger or an external, powered USB Hub will work with the passthru. Look for one that can provide >1A. Many are rated for 500mA or less, so check carefully.

For a more portable solution, I highly recommend a Kensington Portable USB Battery pack. It's more expensive, but works great with the PT (and can recharge your phone or iPod in a pinch). It's also possible (and safe) to have the Kensington plugged in and charging from your PC USB port, while using it to power your PT.
 

Adrenalynn

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Dec 5, 2009
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Personally, my inner engineer prevents me from trying my PT directly on a PC port for fear of damaging the PC.

My inner-engineer says that any motherboard that doesn't have a poly PTC protecting the roothub needs to be removed from its case, taken to the nearest mobo company rep, and used to beat them to death - then replaced with one that does. :mad::-x8-o8-o
 

AZAndy

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Sep 3, 2009
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The PC USB port is gonna have the correct 5V DC. The computer's power supply provides 12v, 5V, and 3.3V for the different areas that need the different voltages. There are all sorts of nifty things that run on USB ports on computers, including coffee-cup warmers and little electric missile-launchers for cubicle fun. Don't be worried about plugging the passthrough into one. It won't hurt anything.
 

Adrenalynn

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Dec 5, 2009
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We weren't talking about voltage - we were talking about current.

The USB2.0 spec doesn't call for 1A delivery @ 5vDC. So technically, no, the motherboard does not have to supply 1A to a root to bear the USB logo.

That said - proper design, including the reference designs, have a poly PTC, which is effectively a "fuse" that resets when the current draw is removed. Without that, many hard drives could potentially destroy a motherboard just from inrush current - typical from any inductive load.
 
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