Running the passthrough on a computer.

[Algernon]

It's really all I've got, I watched a review on Youtube where one man was using his laptop and it was working fine. I'm just checking in to see how it would be.

I ordered one anyway... as whether or not I can power it is irrelevant, if I can't, I'll find something that can but I'd prefer for it to be used with my computer.

I'm used to vaping 3.7volts so it's no biggy if it isn't the full 5V experience just as long as I don't have to depend on a battery.

 

[applefr3ak]

Normally our passthroughs require 2 amps of power to run (2000mAh) but will work with at least 1000mAh. Most computers only output 500mAh though so your experience may vary.

 

[FeistyAlice]

I prefer the passthroughs that have an in-line battery. I can't give anyone any scientific info but it seems to me that the USB port will be more protected getting most power from battery rather than only the USB port. I have a couple of newer USB external DVD drives. Back in the "old" days most the of the USB external drives required a separate power source to run them. Exception was a very few notebook external cases that would run on some, but not all, USB single ports.) The newer drives do have a port, for external power but ship, instead, with a Y cable that plugs into two USB ports to transfer data and power the drive without needing external power. That tells me something about power and high draw USB passthroughs. I wouldn't run a passthrough, solely powered by one USB port, on any of my many computers.

I have read that computer USB ports and even motherboards can be damaged by high drain externals which passthroughs certainly are.

Alice

 

[applefr3ak]

Yes but most good passthroughs will have a protection circuit that prevents them from being used on an under-powered port. which these do have

 

[applefr3ak]

although on our site we do suggest an external powered hub is a much better option.

 

[Algernon]

I suppose at this point, only time will tell. I hope that my motherboard at least puts out 1000mah. If it doesn't, well... sadface. I'll have to of course find a 2A 5V usb powersource.

 

[Algernon]

I found this for $13 today at Best Buy.
I looked everywhere on the box for an amperage, couldn't find anything. I'm guessing since it is a Surge Protector that it would supply as many amps as is necessary for the device. Do you fellows think it is applicable?

Dynex™ - 3-Outlet Travel Surge Protector - DX-S114251

 

[applefr3ak]

it might but not sure because the site does not state what mAh the output is. The chargers that work for iphones and ipads generally work quite well though.

 

[lordmage]

i use a high amp power adapter from radioshack but there is one at walmart online made by rhino for a wall plug i think 2a max. you can look at an wall to ipad charger it may be strong enough as well.

 

[Beachernaut]

I'm using the USB passthrough on my laptop at work with no noticable trouble. However, if I was using it on my personal laptop, I'd use a powered hub, or something similar to provide protection for the laptop. Just to be sure.

I'm not sure if I'm getting the full 5v experience, but it is stronger than I get out of my 3.7 batt devices.

 

[markfm]

The IQ dual USB supply, Walmart online, works well -- I've been using them for months, rated 2A total output.

 

[applefr3ak]

agreed a hub is always best if you do not know what your laptop can handle.

 

[Poeia]

Dr. V, when you look at a charger in person, the amperage is on the back by the prongs. Other than that, not even all the manufacturers' websites provide that info.

I've found the reviews section of Amazon very good for filling in the info. Search for "iPad Charger." Some companies just added the word "iPad" to their existing iPod chargers despite the fact that iPods can charge properly with less than the 2 amps iPads require, but it's a start. This one, for example, is definitely 2 Volt.