External Apple CD Reader won't power on a M2 MacBook Air

You likely need to use a powered USB-C hub. I personally use the one linked below to run a MacBook CD/DVD drive (bare, removed from an old Macbook with the proper adapter) as well as an older LG USB optical drive (mini-USB output). Note that you will need a USB power adapter (like the one that came with your MacBook) to power the hub. The hub then passes required power to the connected devices (like an external optical drive). Note there are many others hubs out there but the main thing to look for is that it's USB-C powered and not just a pass-through adapter.

6-in-one USB-C hub

The Apple USB-C to USB-A adapter has power for SuperDrive, while at least some of the third-party adapters will list SuperDrive support as a limitation. Which adapter is this?

Try another adapter.

I have no problem with my Apple SuperDrive optical drive connected directly to my MBA M2 using this type of plug adapter:

You can find these from various manufacturers on Amazon for about 2/$10, give or take.

"External Apple CD Reader won't power on a M2 MacBook Air: How can I run my older external CD reader on an M2 MacBook Air. I have a USB to USBc adapter but I get a "USB Accessory Needs Power" error."

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Using External Apple CD Reader Without External Power:

What I Use On my Intel and Silicon Macs: External All-in-One Optical Writer - Verbatim Even burning Blu-ray on this works like a charm. Got it at a local retailer. All is connected using this adapter: usbc to usb apple - Apple. No external power its her needed.

Hello

Does the adapter work on other devices?

Thank you very much