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    How do I let my USB charge something while the computer sleeps?

    Discussion in 'Alienware 17 and M17x' started by fluent, Aug 31, 2013.

  1. fluent

    fluent Notebook Evangelist

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    If I recall correctly, 2 of the 4 USB ports on my M17X R4 are powered. Doesn't that mean that something can charge in them while the computer sleeps? Do I need to set any special settings on the laptop in order to allow this? And which of the 4 are the powered ones? Any help greatly appreciated, thanks!
     
    fluent, Aug 31, 2013
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  2. MickyD1234

    MickyD1234 Notebook Prophet

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    Hi, I believe all of them are powered. You need to change a BIOS setting to turn on the USB power while the laptop is off or asleep. I believe it's called 'powershare' but a quick hunt around should find it ;)

    HTH

    Edit: Had a thought about this and it may be that only one USB will be powered when off. If so it will probably be the combo USB/eSATA port...
     
    MickyD1234, Aug 31, 2013
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  3. fluent

    fluent Notebook Evangelist

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    Thanks, MickyD! With your help I got it sorted. Here's how.

    Restart your computer. Press F2 when prompted to enter setup. Go to the advanced tab and turn USB Powershare on. Exit saving changes and voila! Your eSATA/USB port now will power your devices even when the computer sleeps.

    Thanks again!
     
    fluent, Aug 31, 2013
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  4. MickyD1234

    MickyD1234 Notebook Prophet

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    Glad I could help, and thanks for the full rundown :D
     
    MickyD1234, Aug 31, 2013
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  5. Alienware-L_Porras

    Alienware-L_Porras Company Representative

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    Thanks for sharing the solution! This will help other users a lot.
     
    Alienware-L_Porras, Sep 4, 2013
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