Discover how Linux exposes raw USB device data, even without a driver. This article details how to use /dev/hidraw and the HID report descriptor to reverse-engineer and read real-time data from a UPS.

I recently added a UPS to my server rack to keep my internet and home network running during a power outage. After unpacking it, I investigated its USB port and discovered it wasn’t for powering other devices. Instead, it connects to a host computer to provide information like battery charge status, remaining runtime, and current load.

I wanted to access this data without relying on third-party software, so I decided to see if I could reverse-engineer the protocol using Linux.

  • curbstickle@anarchist.nexusEnglish
    3·
    3 hours ago

    Oh it’d be a great learning exercise for sure, though for that I’d rather see someone read spec and put it into practice. Though that’d be more of a UPS than a USB exercise I guess.