using Nexus 7 and an OTG cable

[mcf57]

So, I recently got a Nexus 7 (32gb). Its working great and I have enjoyed using it. I bought it thinking there was no way of expanding it, but I recently learned about a OTG cable that can be used with the Nexus7 in its micro-USB/charging port. From the way I understand it, I would then be able to use a USB thumb drive to play additional content.

What other uses can be used with an OTG cable? Is any kind of rooting needed in order to use it? If not, what app is needed to make it work best? Is there maybe a good website that has some info ALL about using the OTG with the Nexus 7?

[NordieBoy]

Yep. Root it and install Stickmount.

I've used USB sticks, ext drives, mice, keyboards...

[mcf57]

So rooting the Nexus 7 is required in order to use ANY kind of OTG and/or features with it? Is it possible to use an OTG cable without rooting the N7?

[S.Prime]

So rooting the Nexus 7 is required in order to use ANY kind of OTG and/or features with it? Is it possible to use an OTG cable without rooting the N7?

You can copy files from a usb device with an OTG cable without rooting, but you have to root to write to the USB drive.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD

[mcf57]

So, I could at least use an OTG cable to have the Nexus 7 play media files from the connected USB thumb drive, correct? This is actually the main thing I was interested in for now. Don't want to clog up the internal 32GB with my media stuff.

[birdastrompgman]

So, I could at least use an OTG cable to have the Nexus 7 play media files from the connected USB thumb drive, correct? This is actually the main thing I was interested in for now. Don't want to clog up the internal 32GB with my media stuff.

Correct, although you may need to use the Nexus Media Importer app with an unrooted device.

I'm not the lowest of the low, but I am the slowest of the slow (49.6 mpg over 38k miles in  Scion xB)

[bjs229]

Yes. Unrooted. Using Nexus Media Importer you can stream off of your thumb drive.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD

[S.Prime]

Yes you can, but you would need to purchase Nexus Media Importer.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.homeysoft.nexususb.importer

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

[loociddreemr]

I think you're on the right track here...

Sent From my Razr Maxx(stock .211, waiting for the MFN soak test) via Tapatalk 2

[bjs229]

Three in a row. LOL. I would say its good advice.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD

[mcf57]

OK, I see all kinds of places selling these OTG cables on Amazon and ebay. Is there certain ones I should get and/or certain ones to stay away from?

[birdastrompgman]

Get one labeled compatible with the Nexus 7, and you  should be good.

I'm not the lowest of the low, but I am the slowest of the slow (49.6 mpg over 38k miles in  Scion xB)

[mcf57]

OK.  sounds good. I actually also have a Kindle Fire and am now looking into if this product can somehow use the OTG cable without being rooted as well. If so, how. Guess it would be the same thing and just make sure the ad states the OTG will work with a Kindle Fire.

[birdastrompgman]

If your Kindle Fire supports USB hosting, you are good to go. I understand the early model ran Android 2.3, & users had to upgrade to 4.0 to get USB hosting.

I'm not the lowest of the low, but I am the slowest of the slow (49.6 mpg over 38k miles in  Scion xB)