I'm trying to connect a SATA drive from an old PC to my current PC via a USB.

BradL

I'm trying to connect a SATA drive from an old PC to my current PC via a USB. Why does it matter whether the old drive is 2.5 inch or 3.5 inch? The connector on the old drive is 7 pin and 15 pin. Will not either cable work? I'm not installing the old drive in the computer, just trying to connect it via a cable.

BradL

Thanks to Mike W for fast answers.

PowerSpec_MikeW

@BradL

Connectors are physically the same. 2.5" drives use 5V. 3.5" drives use 5V and 12V. An adapter made for a 3.5" drive with separate connectors will work on both. However an adapter made for 2.5" drives only isn't going to provide the 12V that the 3.5" drive needs to operate.

This would work on both: https://www.microcenter.com/product/285941/kingwin-ez-connect-usb-to-sata-ide-hard-drive-adapter

BradL

Thanks for the education, Mike W. One final question: Does the USB connection provide sufficient power to operate the connected SATA drive?

PowerSpec_MikeW

@BradL

It should be fine, check the drive specs to be sure. 2.5" drives are typically 2W or so, though some can exceed the USB 2.0 specification in the 3W range.

USB 2.0 5V 500mA = 2.5W

USB 3.0 5V 900mA = 4.5W