External HDD issu in pro only

[elf69]

In my macbook my external HDD works and is my timemachine drive.

I plug in an turn on timemachine an when done turn i o and eject the drive.

When I plug drive into the pro i beeps and read light flashes on and off.
I wanted to put the backup on my pro.

If I take drive from caddy and put in a caddy with dual USB it will work.

Do older mac output less power on USB?

I used this drive on many windows laptops an tablets with single port fine.
They where mostly ewer than 2007 though.

I am going to get a 54mm USB 3 card for side of pro.
Do you think this will solve the problem?

 

[mikes63737]

Do older mac output less power on USB?

Yes and this is likely what's happening since it works with the other caddy.

Is this a 2.5" (laptop size) backup drive without external power? If so you may also be able to use a powered USB hub instead of buying an expresscard USB adapter.

 

[elf69]

Yes it is a 2.5" caddy.

A powered hub needs well power.
That's my point dont wany yet another item and power plug to carry.

thought the usb 3 card would solve problem in one swoop as well as give high speed usb 3 to an aging mac.

 

[Fishrrman]

OP wrote:
"A powered hub needs wall power.
That's my point dont wany yet another item and power plug to carry"

Sometimes you have no choice but to carry the extra power brick, IF you want things to work.

So... it's your choice:
a. Carry the extra wall plug and things work, or
b. Leave the plug at home, and ... things DON'T work....

 

[elf69]

If I buy a usb 3 card if should solve my problem as usb 3 and the express slot has more power available than the usb 2 ports.

plus the card sits flush with case of the mac so nothing sticking out.

or the two options the card would be better for me.

or i recase the HDD into a caddy with a "Y" cable this too will solve my problem but use 2 usb ports to use the drive.

 

[elf69]

Well it works now.

I fitted a genuine apple battery to the machine and at least when plugged into mains is working, will test on battery when charged.