New 17" macbook pro

[Jeff Kilgroe]

I have a new generation 15" MBP and I'm looking to setup a system that is powered entirely off the MBP battery (which is easily replaceable).

So far I'm thinking about the G-Tech G-RAID mini2 connected via ExpressCard SATA adapter, and powered via FireWire400 (using included 9-pin to 6-pin FW400 cable).

That most likely won't work. The FW800 and FW400 ports on the MBP are linked to the same host controller and share power. If you try to power the GTech off the FW400 port, you won't have enough power left to draw for the RED Drive. Actually, the RED Drive alone as well as the G-Raid mini, can each draw just about the maximum amount of power through the firewire bus. I've lost connection with the RED drive on occasion when running battery powered from my MBP due to a power fall-off.

So, if you want to power both from the MBP battery, you should probably power the GTech from USB instead, if possible. Also be careful with how much total power draw you put on the MBP and its internal battery. I would think there are more practical solutions to be had.

 

[Curran Giddens]

So, if you want to power both from the MBP battery, you should probably power the GTech from USB instead, if possible. Also be careful with how much total power draw you put on the MBP and its internal battery.

I don't think the G-Tech is able to be powered from the USB. At least they don't mention it on the website like they do with their single drive mini's.

That G-Drive mini SSD would do the trick but it would be kinda expensive to fill up 2 of these everyday for month.

http://www.g-technology.com/Products/g-drive-mini-ssd.cfm

EDIT: Never mind, the mini SSD doesn't have eSATA.

I would think there are more practical solutions to be had.

You got any recommendations for a safe, reliable, ultra-portable solution?

 

[Olivier Madar]

Just get it

Just get it

I just get my MacBookPro 17. 8 Gigas RAM and 2,93 MHerz.
I have installed Adobe master CS3, FinalCut and Red appli.

- My firts purpose is to make an HD "live" recorder : (Aja IOHD for input, Esata HD raid1 for recording in ProRes HQ 720 or 1080). I am still waiting for a 3 T Quad at OWC and esata expresscard.
- Second purpose : to use FinalCut and Red files

If you want me to do some tests, just ask.

I have just tested the speed of an external 500 G samsung 5400t/min in USB : 32 MB/sec with Aja IO meters

 

[Olivier Madar]

I just get my OWC quad 3T external drive and the little expresscard esata. 120 MB/sec at the Aja IO test.
The firewire port is 100% feedup via the Aja IO HD and I record in real time 720P 25 ProResHQ (I am just doing it at the same time as I write this post).

It works great ! Doesn't seems to have any drop frame. The harddrive has been reformat in Raid 1 mode so, it is "only" 1,4T but with some security.

OK, I need AC but only for the drive in a Red config, and the 3 USB port are free. That is enough for me.