An apparatus includes a communication interface, a controller, and a power section. The communication interface is configured to receive power from an external host to the apparatus. The controller is configured to limit a current drawn by the communication interface to a predetermined value when the apparatus is powered through the external host. The power section is configured to generate a first voltage from a portion of the limited current drawn by the communication interface. The first voltage powers a data storage circuitry. The power section is further configured to store electrical charges received from another portion of the limited current drawn by the communication interface. The power section is further configured to generate a second voltage from the stored electrical charges in response to a signal from the controller. The second voltage supplements the first voltage during high power events by the data storage circuitry.