Thanks for the info, tickerguy. That's very encouraging! I figure if I can get the HDD to last 6-12 months, I'll be good to go. If it works, and I set up for the secondary USB connector to run off of a USB charger, I could actually double down and add a 2nd HDD for $50 and be done with it, at least until I can afford to go all SSD. This could all be shaping up very nicely....
I have a Seagate GoFlex 3TB USB 3.0 optical drive. Current price about $120. Should work with your dual-plug cable (but you'll lose the USB 3 read speed with the HU being only USB 2),
The GoFlex also comes in different sizes. A 2TB runs about $95. I also have 1TB and 500GB ($60) units. I checked current prices for the 1TB unit and they're actually running about just as much as the 3TB... eek!
I'm thinking that adding something along these lines could provide power for two HDDs with the dual-plug cables (the order I made on newegg is a two pack) and be able to be hidden away with no exposed wiring.
http://www.parts-express.com/cigarette-lighter-socket--265-570
http://www.parts-express.com/dexim-dca154-dual-usb-car-charger-for-iphone-ipod--181-300
Link to the dual USB cord, in case anyone is interested:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812705295
I'm thinking that adding something along these lines could provide power for two HDDs with the dual-plug cables (the order I made on newegg is a two pack) and be able to be hidden away with no exposed wiring.
http://www.parts-express.com/cigarette-lighter-socket--265-570
http://www.parts-express.com/dexim-dca154-dual-usb-car-charger-for-iphone-ipod--181-300
Here's a couple alternatives:
Good eye, jhren. Those look like a much smarter way to do it: smaller, simpler, cheaper, easier to hide away. Thanks!