MOTU M2/M4 lacking dedicated power (iOS options)

[stubbsonic]

Connecting my M4 to my lightning iPad (6th gen) requires a specific powered hub & connection order.

The M2/M4 lacks a separate power input so it must be bus powered (which for iOS devices it can only get via powered hub). Is there such a thing as a USB-C breakout cable that allows one to connect the data portion of the M4 directly to the CCK, and another connector that allows you to power the M4 directly from a 5V power supply (with enough amps)?

There are some adapters on the popular online retailer site. But it seems like the split is data and then a charge "output" rather than "input".

I can just suck it up and use the powered hub. But wanted to see if such a thing was made--as I could conceivably use a power bank to power the M4.

[Guitar Gaz]

I have the M4 myself - not sure how you would power the device without using the usb socket for connecting - I know the M6 has a separate mains power cable, but not sure how this could be achieved on the M4. I don't know of a split function cable but if anyone knows, it will be someone on this forum.

[Phil O]

I recently picked up an M6. The M4 would have filled the need I had, but I went for the M6 specifically because of the power supply.

I realize that doesn't help. Sorry.

I think the powered hub may be your only solution.

[mikehalloran]

The Apple Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter (CCK) has two ports. One is USB 3/2 for data and the other accepts up to 15W lightning iPad charger. That should be more than enough to power an M2/M4. At least it does for mine.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01F7 ... asin_title

If you need additional USB ports, this $20 UGREEN hub works great. It also has a 5W micro USB charging port (charger available separately) but I've never used it with mine—no need. In addition, it has its own headphone jack so that you don't risk your motherboard when someone bumps into the plug (any guesses how I know about that?)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HP ... asin_title

[stubbsonic]

Thanks for the thoughts and ideas. I appreciate it.

Funnily enough, MH, I have both of those items here. I'd swear I've tried the UGREEN with the M4, but perhaps not.

I haven't revisited this since my clunky tests when I first got it. Will give this another deep dive this afternoon.

[mikehalloran]

I have a vague memory of this from long ago.

The UGREEN takes a 5W/2A power supply often sold as an Android phone charger. An Apple iPhone charger has the same spec and works with the right cable.

One of my many iPads came with a 10W charger while the other’s was 12W. When trading in/up at Apple, you don’t get new charging bricks. I’ve never tried the 18W USB chargers with my iPad but don’t know why they wouldn’t work. One thing to remember is that these bricks often have multiple charging ports but, if you use more than one simultaneously, less power is available to any one port.