i own a couple of RB951-2n for my home-lab network and i needed ftp server and smb and tftp for pxe boot. the internal routerboard memory seems inadequate to cover my needs.
i decided to open the router to see what's inside and i found that i may be able to attach a usb jack to connect an external usb hard drive to make my ftp-tftp and smb server for home-laboratory use (i am a computer technician and i need pxe boot machines for diagnosis).

indeed RB951-2n has usb interface but has no circuitry for usb power so i attached a 12v to 5v dc-dc regulator and a usb jack and powered on the device and attached a usb drive. i was very happy that day

i attach you some fotos of the modification.

some solder skills required...

of course cannot do usb power reset but that is a minor detail

enjoy...

This regulator is 3.3v but not 5, and linear type - that not good for usb power.
it will overheat very quickly and then short and after you will have 12v on usb )))

So install only dc-dc with transformer working in impulse mode like impulse power supply.
they are more effective and safe.

Hello, this is fine but you can't use original 24 volt power supply for this?

in my specific configuration i use the original 12v wall power supply.
you can of course add a different regulator of 5v output.
i have seen regulators of variable voltage input and static output 5v of same dimensions but i ordered the 12v to 5v very cheap (i got 2 for 1.4 euros).

Well done it is usefull and thanks for share it with us

See
http://www.zero13wireless.net/foro/show ... 5259d3a414

Can u give me the better pics of the connection?