Can I use the standard CPC 5V to power a Gotek?

[DavidB]

I've recently purchased a CPC6128 - everything works. I got a Gotek for it (which I have tested in my Amiga 1200).
I'm about to put it into my CPC (after I figure out what needs to go on the USB drive), but I'm wondering on powering it up - I know you can't use 12V, so can I wire it into the mainboard 5V and patch it into a new four pin floppy connector, instead of using another 5V adapter - I have a decent 5V power supply, and I'm checking if there isn't some reason why you can't do this.
I have got all the equipment and a bit of knowledge on doing all of this, I just need to check before I get the soldering iron out.

[Shaun M. Neary]

My CPC6128 works fine on a 5v adapter and the 3" drive has been swapped out with a Gotek, you should be fine.

There's often a TZXDuino connected to it to load from tape (I was a tape guy growing up, and nostalgia never goes out of style) and still no problems.

Only problems you might encounter is when you start adding stuff to the expansion port. So your mileage may vary.

[eto]

I have a decent 5V power supply, and I'm checking if there isn't some reason why you can't do this.
I have got all the equipment and a bit of knowledge on doing all of this, I just need to check before I get the soldering iron out.

Yes, perfectly works. However I personally prefer to use the 5V that is provided to the CPC anyway. E.g. a DC splitter cable will work just fine.

[Jonathan]

I just bought a Gotek to use externally and it came with a splitter cable. So I imagine if you're using it instead of the floppy drive you could do as you suggest and use the Amstrad's power. 

[robcfg]

If I remember correctly, you can use the internal floppy power cable, but you need to swap the +5 and +12v cables, or make a simple adapter for that.

Please someone correct me if I'm wrong!

[eto]

If I remember correctly, you can use the internal floppy power cable, but you need to swap the +5 and +12v cables, or make a simple adapter for that.

Please someone correct me if I'm wrong!

You are talking about an internal replacement. If it's an external drive you only connect a 5V power supply.

[eto]

I just bought a Gotek to use externally and it came with a splitter cable. So I imagine if you're using it instead of the floppy drive you could do as you suggest and use the Amstrad's power.

What do you mean with ,,instead"? Do you want to replace the internal drive or do you want to use it as a second drive?

If it comes with a splitter cable I would assume it is meant to get the 5V from the monitor. But to be 100% sure you should ask the seller.

[Jonathan]

By "instead" I meant instead of the normal internal floppy drive. I've no experience of connecting a Gotek as an internal replacement drive so maybe shouldn't have commented. My y-cable is to use the CPC's own power with the Gotek as an external drive B.

[eto]

instead of the normal internal floppy drive

Internally you need an adapter to connect the 26pin cable to the 34pin GOTEK connector, an adapter to switch the 5V position in the cable and a 3d printed mounting bracket. 

Cable adapter:
https://www.cpcwiki.eu/index.php/DIY:Floppy_Drives

Instead of making your own adapters you can find fully assembled adapters on Ebay.

[DavidB]

I just used a standard 12v adapter with variable voltages (5v).
I removed the 12v cable on the board, soldered a fused wire from 5v+ switch to the 12v+ pin on that and also an earth, and it runs directly to the existing floppy wire perfectly with the minimum of work.
I doubt I'll ever put the floppy drive back in, but will put a failsafe something or other in between, eventually.