hard drive cable ?

[xwrench3]

i want to use an old hard drive as a backup for some of my files. can i use this cable for power and data, or will i need separate cables?

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIAAUJ41K8956&ignorebbr=1

[AlwaysFSX]

That'll work, you just need to make sure the USB port can provide enough power to spin a hard drive, it's not often but some can't.

[xwrench3]

will a usb 3.0 port provide enough power?

[WoodenMarker]

2 minutes ago, xwrench3 said:

will a usb 3.0 port provide enough power?

2.5" hdd's are usually fine. 3.5" hdd's will need an additional power cable.

Moved to Storage Devices.

[xwrench3]

yes, it is a 3.5" WD blue. i was concerned about the power usage. i am glad i asked.  thanks!

[pwn_intended]

9 minutes ago, xwrench3 said:

yes, it is a 3.5" WD blue. i was concerned about the power usage. i am glad i asked.  thanks!

Yup, wont work with a 3.5 incher. All laptop size drives would be fine with it though.

[ProjectBox153]

https://www.amazon.com/Ugreen-Converter-Adapter-Cable-Drive/dp/B00MYU0EAU/ref=sr_1_9?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1481903873&sr=1-9&keywords=sata+to+usb+3

$16 and comes with a power adapter. I have one and it works miracles. USB ports can't provide enough power to spin up a hard drive any larger than 2.5 inches, hence most "desktop" external drives needing power cables. Same goes for internal drives if you are using them externally.