Werewolf transforms your old gadgets into USB-C powered devices
Give your legacy electronics new life with modern USB-C power sources.
1USB-C solution for legacy devices
Werewolf's VFLEX dongle enables you to power your old electronic devices with modern USB-C power sources. Devices like the Super Famicom from the 1990s can now run on USB-C batteries. This $8 device can be programmed by connecting it to your phone, converting old power ports to USB-C. This allows you to use your devices with portable batteries without needing a wall outlet.
2Ease of use and compatibility
To use the VFLEX dongle, you first need to connect it to your phone to set the correct voltage. Settings are stored in non-volatile memory, but you must be careful not to apply incorrect voltage. For example, connecting a monitor requiring 19V to the same power source as a Game Boy drawing 0.33W could damage the device. Werewolf's app lets you create profiles for each device and save compatible power sources.
3Power management and flexibility
Werewolf's system works by requesting your desired power rather than converting voltage. It uses USB-C protocols to negotiate power delivery, letting you specify how much power you need. However, not all USB-C chargers support every voltage. For instance, Apple's 140W charger can't output 19V. You'll need to use a power source that can deliver your device's required voltage.
4Special solution for retro consoles
Retro gaming consoles like the Nintendo Game Boy and Super Famicom use negative center pins, requiring special connectors. Werewolf offers an orange-tipped cable for these devices. While the app currently doesn't allow polarity settings, the company is working on dedicated adapter cables for retro consoles, letting you enjoy classic gaming experiences with modern power solutions.
5Practical use cases
The VFLEX dongle can be used in various scenarios. You can replace a lost AC adapter for an old external hard drive with a USB-C battery. You can power your 27-inch desktop monitor with a USB-C source when moving it to your garage for filming. You can even connect an aging Atomos recording device via VFLEX to USB-C when its batteries degrade. This solution makes your old devices usable again.
6Power consumption and battery life
The power consumption of devices connected via VFLEX directly affects your portable battery's lifespan. For example, a gaming console drawing 2W, a monitor using 24W, and an HDMI converter consuming under 1W can all run for hours on the same battery. The original Game Boy, drawing just 0.33W, could theoretically run for over 90 hours on a pocket battery - a significant advantage for travel and outdoor activities.
7Limitations and precautions
While VFLEX offers a practical solution, it has some limitations. You need to know your device's required voltage since the dongle can't test a dumb power port. This information is typically found on the device itself or its old power brick. Additionally, if you need voltages other than 5V, 9V, 15V, 20V, 28V, 36V or 48V, you'll need a programmable power supply (PPS), which adds extra cost.
8The future of power solutions
Werewolf's VFLEX dongle bridges the gap between legacy electronics and modern power standards, offering a sustainable solution. It's particularly ideal for retro tech enthusiasts and those who want to keep using their old devices. The company is developing specialized adapter cables for retro consoles, CPAP machines, and industrial environments. This innovative approach could help reduce e-waste and promote more efficient resource use.
Original article: The Verge — Werewolf eski cihazlarınızı USB-C ile çalıştırıyor