BJC1982
asked on
Computer locks up when USB devices are connected
Whenever I connect my USB devices, the computer either locks up or diplays an error message that says device not recognized. This happens regardless of which device I use - web cam, mouse, passport, etc.... I have already reinstalled the drivers for the USB ports and it didn't help. Everything had been working fine until recently when this problem appeared. Every so often the USB ports will work, however they usually quit after 20 minutes or less with the message "device not recognized". Any help would be greatly appreciated
any errors in device manager?
did it work before? if recent, a system restore can help you out
did it work before? if recent, a system restore can help you out
Make sure the power management settings for the USB ports in device manager do not try to conserve power.
ASKER
Thanks for the answers. Everything was working fine till it quit on me one day. I've tried numerous restores to no avail. There are no errors listed in device manager. The power management for the USB ports are not restricted. I am running XP SP2 on this laptop if that helps. Also, I purchased a Cardbus USB expansion card and tried that yesterday with the same effects - the computer locked up ONLY when I plug a USB device into the card. Any help would be greatly appreciated
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ASKER
Thanks for your help. Everything is working like a charm now!
- Sometimes a wiring short or a bad USB device will cause this but if you've used multiple devices on multiple USB ports that's probably not it.
- Make sure if you are XP you are running Service Pack 2 or 3 and Vista SP 1.
- Make sure not to be using devices that draw a lot of power as it can cause damage to your motherboard : ie scanners, printers (UNLESS they have independant power supplies).