Can I use an external CD drive to plug into a car USB?

[sutt91]

Hi all, my dad recently got a new car and didn't think to check the spec for a cd player. Is it possible to buy an external CD reader (quite cheap online designed for laptops) and plug into the USB port in the car for the sound to run through the cars speakers? Thanks!

 

[captaincharisma]

why? it would be better to get a big USB stick or even a portable hard drive and rip all the cds on that. besides you would have to worry about the CD skipping if it is possible it would work

 

[Rogue Leader]

Doesn't work like that, That port is for data. In theory if the CD were burnt as a data disc and filled with MP3's maybe it would work, but thats the only way. That said many auto USB ports are low amp and may not have the juice to run a CD drive.

 

[americanaudiophile]

As answered above. No drivers for CD, not enough power for CD, and it wouldn't work with the car is in motion anyway.
Car CD players have a large buffer to hold the audio before playing so if you go over a bump you don't hear the player skip.
I would suggest you rip you Dads CDs and load them on a USB drive.

 

[alphakhoa]

Agree with answers above, there is no driver through USB port on your car, so Media center on your car won't recognize external CD drive. I tried with Toyota Innova.

 

[Christina66]

Doesn't work like that, That port is for data. In theory if the CD were burnt as a data disc and filled with MP3's maybe it would work, but thats the only way. That said many auto USB ports are low amp and may not have the juice to run a CD drive.

 

[Christina66]

Hi there, I tried this. I used a data disc, burned mp3's on the disc, placed it in my portable drive, plugged it into my usb port in my vehicle and it wouldn't play.

 

[Rogue Leader]

Hi there, I tried this. I used a data disc, burned mp3's on the disc, placed it in my portable drive, plugged it into my usb port in my vehicle and it wouldn't play.

I did say "in theory" I'm not surprised it didn't work. As mentioned the port is usually low amp so it won't run a portable player.

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