What is Bus Powered? Easy-to-understand explanation of the basic concept of device driving
Bus powered refers to a power supply arrangement in which a device receives its required power directly from the bus it is connected to, rather than relying on a separate power source. In simple terms, it means that a device can operate solely by drawing power from the same cable or connector that is used to connect it to a computer or another host device. This eliminates the need for an additional power cable or battery for the device, making it more convenient and portable.
Bus power is most commonly used in the context of computer peripherals and accessories. These can include devices such as external hard drives, keyboards, mice, and USB-powered lamps. By utilizing the power provided by the bus, these devices can be seamlessly integrated with the host device without the need for any additional power source or complicated setup.
One common example of bus power is the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard. USB ports on computers and other devices not only provide data connectivity but also deliver power to connected devices. This is possible because USB cables contain multiple wires, with some dedicated to data transmission, while others are reserved for power supply.
To better understand how bus power works, let’s take a USB-powered external hard drive as an example. When you connect the hard drive to a USB port on your computer, the data cables allow for the transmission of data, while the power wires simultaneously deliver electricity to the hard drive. This allows the hard drive to function, both in terms of data transfer and power supply, without any additional cables or external power sources.
The advantage of bus power is evident in its simplicity and convenience. Without the need for separate power cables or batteries, bus-powered devices are easier to set up and use. It also helps reduce cable clutter and allows for a more streamlined and portable setup. However, it’s important to note that bus-powered devices rely on the power provided by the host device, so the available power may vary depending on the specific device and the capabilities of the host. Some power-hungry devices may require an external power source, especially if they require a higher level of voltage or current than what the bus can provide.
In conclusion, bus power refers to the capability of a device to draw power directly from the bus it is connected to, eliminating the need for an external power source. This concept is widely used in computer peripherals and accessories, with USB being a prominent example. Bus-powered devices offer convenience, simplicity, and portability, although the available power may have limitations depending on the capabilities of the host device.
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