is there a way to connect an external hard drive to our bionics?

i could have sworn that i saw something a couple of weeks ago discussing USB OTG (USB On The Go) for the Bionic on ICS... of course i can't find it now

 

I have my own file server running Server 2008 R2 and I use ES File Explorer to stream videos from it with MX Player. It only works while I'm at my house, but that's the only place I use it anyway. Netflix takes care of the rest. If going the ES Explorer route feel free to hit me up with any questions about folder permissions and whatnot. I'm well versed in Windows networking.

 

I have a network drive attached to my router. I can easily access it over wifi. 2tb.

I assume it's about as good as a USB connection, but haven't compared data transfer rates.

 

to answer the ops questions and help some of you guys out.

I have a lapdock running ics webtop 3.0. I am able to use NTFS file format with an app called Paragon NTFS & HFS+. Its on the google market and its free. As far as OTG cables i believe that you will need some power along with that because
there is no power coming out of that data port on the bionic. Just buying the y cable and sticking in the hdd wont cut it.

For those that need a media streamer that will play mkv embedded subtitles i recommend emit. Also on the market but not free. Only draw back of this is that it intensively uses your cpu for on the fly conversion. Dont try it if you dont have a good comp and willing for it to run at 90+ % cpu when you stream the movie to your device (bionic).

 

I use Mobo for a video player and it has played every type I have so far.

 

I use ZumoCast to stream vidoes from my laptop. Works pretty well and maintains good quality for video and you can access pictures and files as well.

 

I've seen ways to activate the USB OTG on the bionic though i have yet to try it. The OTG will not function if the device is not being powered. using a powered hub and connecting a USB Y cable through the device and drive is what seems to be the trick... a lil research and you should be able to find an easy answer. can't remember the web address to the site off hand but not hard to find. there is even some howto's to make a battery powered hub for on the go.