just bought my first usb pass thru ... too scared to use it

[Zenfrogs]

I really want to try it out but am honestly afraid to plug it into my brand new iMac... I saw a thread where someone stated that a passthru fried their computer. I am not well versed in current so am I being paranoid?? Its a V4L passthru if that helps...

 

[Kurt]

I really want to try it out but am honestly afraid to plug it into my brand new iMac... I saw a thread where someone stated that a passthru fried their computer. I am not well versed in current so am I being paranoid?? Its a V4L passthru if that helps...

Your caution is well founded. Thanks for stating the model. This is a 5V PT that will draw serious current. I have not used one, but even "normal" PTs have fried USB ports in my experience. It is actually relatively common. Best to use an external powered USB hub. Better is a dedicated AC/5V-USB converter with a rating of at least 1 amp, preferably 2 amp. Most USB ports in computer are much less than this and the curtent fries them, and possibly your motherboard too.

RadioShack sells a variety of AC/USB converters. The one I have is actually a variable-voltage device, but that is not necessary for your purposes...you just need 5V. They are pricier than the cheapo units, but I've fried out several of those.

Good luck! It is a nice PT, especially for the money.