does it need an external power source or usb powered
624264
It needs the included AC adapter. This is a full-size 3.5" desktop drive inside. USB powered drives will typically be your smaller 2.5" "laptop" size drives.
151483
It has to be plugged into the computer using it's USB cord. That is also how it gets it's power.
1468109
It can be powered used via usb. But I wouldn't recommend it because it's possible you could burn out the internal battery
1305610
If you've not looked at the "owners manual" for this item please do a google search and find one. The short answer to that question is none, there's not an external power source, it's 12v and powered by the motherboard connection.
973536
Well you need a usb cable, that's what powers it , once plugged to a usb source of power, it's ready
1560224
Good question, dont remember if it actually does. I pretty much use it via USB power.
187400
Nope. It works without any external power source and yes it works just fine.
197958
You just plug it into the computer via USB drive and set it up that way and you are ready to go. No other power source needed.
1111844
There are one cable USB to an -Mini USB (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB) in the packet. Its Powered by the USB, no need for extra power.
907288
Hi. With this device, you do not need any external power. The device brings it all included and takes what it needs directly from their computer. It works excellently. Regards. Vincent.
1436246
Powered by USB, whether off laptop, desktop, or direct plug with a USB port. I love it!
1742667
No external power source required. I added the required AA batteries in order to keep the call memory intact. However, if you want this as a wall phone, you are wasting your money. The receiver does not stay in the cradle.............
2106651
Technically, the answer is yes; it gains its power externally--it has no internal power source. However, in common parlance the answer the answer is no, since it gains its power through the usb and does not have a separate power cord or connection.
459078
It will function without external power. Using external means there is less drain on your (Laptop) power.
2096027
No, you need the USB. But if you have something that could connect the USB to a outlet you can go that.
2149499
Just USB powered but I haven't had any issues with it. Albeit, I only use it on rare occasions for work
1690709
Alex, you asked "Is this drive fully portable, or does it need a power cord?" This external drive is fully portable and needs no external power source. You have one USB to USB connection to your PC or laptop, etcetera, which when connected is assigned a driver by Windows and power is supplied by that one connection in addition to communicating with your PC as an external drive.