Apple External Disc Drive

I have a 2019 MacBook Air, and currently have 2 docking stations attached to the only 2 outlets on the computer so I can have 2 independently operating monitors. I purchased an Apple brand external disc drive and first hooked it up to the one dock via usb and it said not enough power to operate. I then disconnected the one docking station from the port directly on the computer and plugged it in there and got the same message.

My computers charged through the docking station is always at 100% power.

How can I use my external disc drive?

thanks in advance, Joe

Posted on Apr 8, 2023 1:06 PM

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anu_krishna

Level 2

154 points

Posted on Apr 21, 2023 11:06 AM

It sounds like your docking stations are using up a lot of power, which may be why your MacBook Air is unable to power the external disc drive. One solution is to try using a USB hub that has its own power source. This can provide the necessary power for the external disc drive to operate properly. Another option is to unplug one of the docking stations while you use the external disc drive, and then plug it back in once you're done.

[Edited by Moderator]

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anu_krishna

Level 2

154 points

Apr 21, 2023 11:06 AM in response to Joseph Stevens

[Edited by Moderator]

Jun 28, 2023 1:05 PM in response to Joseph Stevens

As a follow up, I bought a new docking station, with powered USB AND Thunderbolt outlets and it still didn't work. then someone suggested I buy the Apple USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter and I tried the thunderbolt and it didn't work, but the drive came with the two options, the Thunderbolt OR a USB so I used the USB and it worked. HAPPY DAYS. the cord on the drive is so short, and I use buy laptop in clamshell mode, so I bought a USB extension cable, and NOPE, it won't work. So I will suffer through the short cord but at least I have it woking without having to disconnect my second monitor? Hope this helps someone else. ALSO only buy the APPLE connector, not an off brand. It won't work either.

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Apple External Disc Drive