eSata Port...question

WHOA, rather big picture, sorry...(picture of a latitude e6400)

In particular pay attention to the port on the bottom. This is an "eSATA" port, correct? Now for the crazy question of mine: Is this eSATA port compatible with a male usb connector? I'm pretty sure it isn't, but would like to confirm before I try and destroy something

 

Setup and Reference Guide identifies that port as both USB and eSATA. The labeling also suggests this. I'd say it is good for both, but not knowing how usage is determined leaves me short of saying, go ahead and plug it in!

I'd guess either usage is harmless else Dell would be laying an easy trap for support calls and headaches.

GK

 

The symbols are correct and the bottom port is both USB and eSATA.

It works fine in both modes on my E6400 but it can be a little stiff for USB devices.

John

PS: Get Microsoft's image resizer powertoy (for XP) or the VSO image resizer (for Vista).

 

That's real tight...a port that can function in 2 ways.

So, I suppose that the long -term plan for eSATA is to eventually replace USB? 3GBPS is a very attractive speed.

As for resizing images, the pic was hard-linked from another website.

 

I have a E6400 and have not been able to get any USB device to fit in that ESATA port. how did you get a usb device to fit?

 

USB 3 promises very fast data transfer speeds. eSATA's advantage is it is a direct link to the storage controller.

I don't know if the similar size of USB and eSATA ports is by design. I suspect it took some ingenious person to work out that a combined port is feasible. However, I'm still waiting for a combo eSATA (for data) + USB (for power) plug and cable.

John

 

You cam plus a USB device into the eSATA port. It's a VERY TIGHT fit so I avoid it whenever I can.

James

 

Just line up the plug ("empty" side up), make sure it is in the center, and press firmly. It has some resistance, ESPECIALLY on the first time, but it does work.

 

E4300 has the same port - no problem with USB and eSata devices. It´s only necessary exact possition and small pressure. eSata is one of the best hw features of last few years, you can use external discs like with the same speed as internal one.

 

It'll fit but it's a REALLY tight fit at first. It has to get worked in a bit.