FireWire . . . powered or unpowered?

Is it better to have a card w/ a powered or unpowered FireWire port?

[Kc2iLq]

It really depends. If it is on a laptop, you do not want powered firewire. If it is on a desktop, you probably would want it. I charge my iPod via the firewire on my computer and some firewire devices require you to have powered firewire.

-Kc2iLq

[Urban_Squrill]

On a laptop you may want it. I have a friend that uses a external hard drive. It's great power and a connection in one link. Will USB2.0 power?

[stroyal]

USB 1 and 2 are powered but are limited as to how many devices they can power, but you can add powered hubs that put out more power than the port.
I thought firewire hubs work the same way, and could be used to power an unpowered port

[phenious]

I think only a 6 Pin Firewire port can provide power.... could be wrong but I remember reading that some where....

-: phenious :-

[bailey]

it has always been my practice to use self powered hubs with both usb and firewire, as it will take the power load off the system
and allow better use of the ports,

[Xtreeme]

6 pin is port A and is powered. B isnt and is 4 wire.