Question Save Power Supply by using a mains-powered USB Hub ?

[Petros_K]

If I have a PC with a PSU that is beginning to max out, but I want to run a USB powered device, would it save power to get a mains-powered USB hub that plugs in and provides power to the USB device? Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Sabrent-Individual-Switches-Included-HB-UMP3/dp/B00TPMEOYM/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=Powered+Usb+Hub&qid=1692658763&sr=8-6&th=1

 

[punkncat]

If you have a system so loaded that you are considering external power for peripherals it should be cause to consider replacement of the power supply, if possible.

 

[USAFRet]

What USB devices?

But if your current PSU is that close to the edge, you probably need a new one.

Of course, we out here have no idea of what devices you're working with.
So, please enlighten us.

 

[Petros_K]

If you have a system so loaded that you are considering external power for peripherals it should be cause to consider replacement of the power supply, if possible.

Not possible to upgrade PSU. Was looking at this solution as a alternative.

 

[Petros_K]

The USB devices I would use at the same time include a MOTU M2 audio interface and an M-Audio 49e midi keycontroller. Both are USB powered. I do not know what the power consumption is and was thinking the powered USB hub would be safer alternative than pushing PSU too hard.

 

[DSzymborski]

The thing is, these things use so little power that it doesn't matter; if they made a difference, you're already in deep deep trouble and this wouldn't be enough to save you.

It's a bit like driving naked to get better gas mileage in your car. Yeah, the car is a few pounds lighter, so technically it'll get better mileage, but not enough to care about at all.

 

[Petros_K]

The thing is, these things use so little power that it doesn't matter; if they made a difference, you're already in deep deep trouble and this wouldn't be enough to save you.

It's a bit like driving naked to get better gas mileage in your car. Yeah, the car is a few pounds lighter, so technically it'll get better mileage, but not enough to care about at all.

So in other words, USB powered devices do not really draw significant wattage from the PSU?

 

[USAFRet]

So in other words, USB powered devices do not really draw significant wattage from the PSU?

Correct.

 

[Petros_K]

I just confirmed the USB powered audio interface I need to run does no more power consumption than 2.5 watts. So nothing to really be concerned about.

Thanks guys. Saved me from buying the powered USB hub for no reason.