Features, settings & updates

[montecarlo1987]

Hello. I have a question to ask you all. The Roku Express 4k+ does not have a true Ethernet port so you could not use a wired Internet connection into an Ethernet port on the Roku Express 4k+ for a wired connection whereas the Roku Ultra does. However, Roku Express 4k+ does have the ability to still use the Ethernet using a compatible USB (technically, micro USB for the micro USB port on the device) Ethernet adapter. A user would plug the Ethernet cable coming from a router/modem into this USB Ethernet adapter's Ethernet port and then connect the micro USB cable connector (cable part of the USB Ethernet adapter) into the Roku Express 4k+’s micro USB port. Normally, the micro USB port serves as a power port, but this port also can serve with this particular device as wired data transmission as well. Question: Does this micro USB port on the Roku Express 4k+ still require power to run the Roku Express 4k+ device when using a USB Ethernet adapter meaning there needs to be a power source; likely a power adapter connected to the USB Ethernet adapter or not? ...or is the Ethernet supplying enough power (within its data transmission coming from a router/modem) to power the Roku Express 4k+? I just cannot believe the Ethernet is supplying enough power to run the Roku Express 4k+ when using the USB Ethernet adapter, but I could be wrong. Does it need to be a “powered” USB Ethernet adapter to adequately power the Roku Express 4k+? Please explain.

I understand the Roku base device – Roku Express (HD) does not have this option or capability. The micro USB port on the Roku Express (HD) device can only be used for power.

Thank you!

[Strega]

Yes, the adapters Roku recommends have a USB plug that goes to the existing Roku power supply, and micro USB to the Roku device.

https://support.roku.com/article/360058027813

[MilesT]

That support article isn't the most helpful, lacking a critical picture @RokuDanny-R  of the special cable/Ethernet adapter for a 4k that has a USB and micro USB connector as well as network.  You can find pictures with obvious internet searches.

Streambar is easy as it has a separate power supply.

There is a variant of Ethernet cable that can carry plenty of power but it is more specialist.  Standard is called PoE or Power Over Ethernet, 48v, usually used for office VoIP phones, wireless bridges in offices etc.  Not something that Roku would use (too expensive).