Powering the 3020 from the Serial Console

I've been reading the TL-MR3020 Openwrt page and noticed the pinout for the serial console. Can I power the router via the VCC and GND pins and bypass the mini usb? I have been looking for a compact way to run my piratebox using a small 1200 mAh lipo. Thanks!

I do not know, but I doubt that you are getting enough power to bring the USB stick to life. :-(

I manage to pull it off. A small lipo battery will power the 3020 from the serial console. I did use an Adafruit power boost 500 to get from 3.7 to 5v. I don't think this is a viable alternate to the mini-usb port any longer. There are components on the board that begin to heat up badly the longer power is plugged in this way.

oops! The mini usb port on my piratebox has stopped working (it's my fault due to the juryrigged mini-usb plug....lol) Now, I have no choice but to power up from the serial console. I will keep you posted on whether this is safe to do long term.