Can all these USB powered gadgets damage your PC or power supply?
With Christmas around the corner I'm getting lots of questions from my users if they can give each other gifts of gadgets that connect to their USB ports for power. The "hot" one this year is heated mittens that plug in to the USB port. I have not previously set a policy on this and would rather not globally disable people's USB ports. Can anyone weigh in on if allowing users to power such devices like these, mini fridges, massagers, vacumes, etc., etc. cause any damage from constant use or should I just be more open minded? I hate to be a crab but I hate to also fry a couple hundred power supplies just so folks have something to put in their Christmas stockings!
If you think there is a negative impact and can cite a reference that would be great.
If you think there is a negative impact and can cite a reference that would be great.
simpswr
Not likley to fry a powersupply, but could easily overload and fry the USB port . .
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if you fear for overloading, add a powered USB hub to the gifts, or a warning
and if you fear for the power supply, let them check the power you need here :
http://extreme.outervision.com/psucalculator.jsp
http://extreme.outervision.com/psucalculator.jsp
ASKER
Thanks. That's the first link I've seen where somoone (even if it is Wikpedia) has been willing to step up and say these devices, especially the ones with multiple connectors to grab more power, can be harmful.