Another method: USB Powered? Want to be mobile? No problem!

For topics specifically about audio interfaces (USB, MFi, Camera Connection Kit)

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fgplayerx
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Another method: USB Powered? Want to be mobile? No problem!

Post by fgplayerx » Wed Oct 22, 2014 8:53 am

USB Powered? Want to be mobile? No problem!

The first method I posted to remain mobile with a USB powered audio interface involved a cable like this one:
CableForFirstMethodPosted.JPG
Now, for this method, get your hands on a cable like this one:
CableForAlternateMethod.JPG
NOTE: Not all cables are alike. I tried some that did not work. But the ones that did, have these types of specs on them:
RecommendedSpecsOfCables.JPG
This method has worked on all the un-powered USB hubs that I have; so you choose the one you like. BUT*:
AllMyHubsWorked.JPG
*BUT, I would strongly recommend the USB hubs that have a switch to stop the iOS device from trying to deliver power to the hub. When I tried these hubs, I never got an error from the iOS device stating that it can not deliver power to the audio interface:
RecommendedStyleOfHub.JPG
If you choose a hub like these, keep the switch in the OFF position.

And you will need a portable mobile phone charger similar to these ones:
RecommendedStyleOfMobilePhoneChargers.JPG

So, lets get to it.

First step: Power up the USB hub.
1-PowerUpTheHub.JPG
Second step: Power up the audio interface. A Mackie Onyx Blackjack in this example.
2-PowerUpTheAudioInterface.JPG
Third step: Connect the already powered audio interface through the already powered hub with the Lightning -or 30 pin- to USB Camera Connection Kit.
3-ConnectTheHubToCCKit.JPG
And here is this setup Phantom powering a pair of Rode M3 microphones using Auria:
iPad4AuriaMackiePhantomRodeM3x2.JPG
Now, that's not all. Because for the same price, if you have another iOS 7 capable iphone or ipod, you can use them also with the same setup. NO JAILBREAK REQUIRED. Yes, you read well, NO JAILBREAK REQUIRED. So, here is an iPhone 4S running iOS 8.1 with a 30pin to USB CCK using the same setup and MultitrackDAW:
iPhone4sMtdMackiePhantomRodeM3x2.JPG
And for those that can't believe it:
iPhone4sMtdShowingTheInputsFromMackie.JPG
Try it out.

Hope this helps someone :)

acaonweb
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Re: Another method: USB Powered? Want to be mobile? No probl

Post by acaonweb » Fri Dec 12, 2014 5:27 am

and...the ipad is powered too?
iPad Air Pro 11 iOS 16.3 WiFi 512 Giga, Scarlett Focusrite 18i8
http://mustek.bandcamp.com

fgplayerx
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Re: Another method: USB Powered? Want to be mobile? No probl

Post by fgplayerx » Fri Dec 12, 2014 6:09 am

acaonweb wrote:and...the ipad is powered too?
LOL. No. As far as I know, you cant power your iOS device with CCK methods. Only with some MFI devices.

But you could try with a larger ampere power supply. I have not tried it because I don't have one. A 5V 3,5A at least. But I cant take resposibility if your burn some electronics in the process. So, please, if you try it, on your own risk.

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martygras
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Re: Another method: USB Powered? Want to be mobile? No probl

Post by martygras » Mon Feb 02, 2015 6:38 pm

Hey fgplayerx, I see you've expanded your original post. This is a great thread.

I wish it could be a sticky.

I use your method when playing my Akai EWI USB directly into the iPad, (and now iPhone 6+)

I bought a very cheap USB mobile battery and it works great, but I have to charge it back up after playing for about 3 hours so I might get a larger capacity version.

The charge on the iPad Air is not really an issue at all.

Thanks again for sharing your experiences.
Marty Schulte [I'm a drummer. So, there's that.]
iPad AIR(128), Akai EIE, Akai EWI USB, illudium q-36 explosive space modulator
Head First Audio (live sound for Southern Oregon, USA)

fgplayerx
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Re: Another method: USB Powered? Want to be mobile? No probl

Post by fgplayerx » Tue Feb 03, 2015 3:12 am

martygras wrote:Hey fgplayerx, I see you've expanded your original post. This is a great thread.
Hey martygras, glad to be of help :)

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