Using USB Port As A Power Supply - Connecting USB Devices To The PC

1. 69

   quicksandposted 3 years ago

   Using USB Port As A Power Supply - Connecting USB Devices To The PC
   
   Can connecting electrical devices like USB fans, LED lights, and other items that require a power supply, using the USB as a power source, have an adverse effect on PC functions, or shorten the life span of any of the components of the PC, or in the network? Will the step-down transformer in the power supply be subjected to an overload? Since the USB port functions in multiple ways like conveying signals from the mouse, and transferring pulses from the router, I was wondering if over usage of this port as a source of electrical power would in any way hinder PC functions ... ?

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2. 86

   Buildrepsposted 3 years ago

   Yes, it is possible that a PC gets overloaded by too many power sources connected to the USB outlets. A transformer will age quicker when it develops (too much) internal heat by (too) much load.
   
   The circuit board wiring to the USB is not designed to carry much current, and might become too hot as well.
   
   You would probably say that a PC is designed to handle all the accumulated loads together. That is true, but it will lead to faster ageing of the components since they develop more internal heat, and internal heat is the ultimate enemy of a PC.

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   1. 69

      quicksandposted 3 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks BuildReps, I shall put away of some of my newly acquired gadgets that rely on USB ports to supply power!

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