external hard drive to install software??? Closed

Question

Hello,
I'm beating my head against the wall......I have a toshiba laptop that has a broken cd/dvd drive.  I bought a used external drive (no cords) to install the software that runs the modem (Motorola) and internet (D-Link).  I'm thinking I need a usb cord to connect the laptop to the drive, then a firewire power cord to connect the drive to the outlet.  Is this correct and can someone direct me from this point?
thanks a million.....this headache's KILLIN me!

xpcman · Answer

No.  USB and firewire are two methods to connect the hard drive to the laptop.  If the external drive is a pocket sized drive it might run off the USB supplied power. But, some drives have a split USB connector that requires you to use two USB plugs.  These small drives often have a another round plug for a 5 volt external transformer that can be used for power.  If it's a bigger desktop sized drive it will have either an internal power supply with a 2 or 3 prong power cord receptacle or a large external power brick.  Good Luck finding the right cables.

stoney · Answer

OK, it's a Sony 2 tier (does that sound right?) external drive.  I have the USB connected from the drive to the laptop, and there IS a small round plug (would that be the 5 volt external transformer?) for the power?  So, after I get the power cord, it should work barring any other problems, right?

xpcman · Answer

I can't find any reference to a "Sony 2 tier".  I use a universal AC adapter with 5 Volt 2100mA output. It works well with my 60GB 2.5 inch laptop drive in an external case.  The power supply I have for a 3.5 inch desktop drive external uses  a two prong power adapter rated at 5V 1.5A and 12V 1.8A.   

 Good Luck finding a power supply.

External hard drive to install software???

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