I have a Seagate external HD - 1GB, separate power supply (ST31000SEXM101-RK), which I use for backups.
My computer has 2x320GB HDs, the first with Vista 32, Vista 64(both Business), and Windows 7 Professional 64 bit which I have been using as the preferred OS for 3 months. The second HD is for data.
In the last few days, when awakening the computer from Windows 7 sleep (moving the mouse) I have been getting the message:-
“The USB device has malfunctioned and Windows does not recognize it.
Try reconnecting the device. If Windows still does not recognize it replace
the device”.
Actions tried; Restart-no change. Unplug USB and reconnect-no change. Windows explorer-does not show the Seagate drive, nor does Disk Management. Device Manager no longer lists it, but there is "unknown device" showing in the USB list.
Unplugging the power and reconnecting has the drive working normally.
However....
Next re-awakening from sleep - the same Windows message.
As this drive needs to be on line in the small hours and must awaken the computer from sleep, this present condition means no backup, until restart and reconnect the next morning.
Is there a cure for this?
Seagate are willing to replace the drive, but if it is a W7 problem, then a new drive is no solution.