As convenient and universal as USB connections are, there can be moments when devices do not work as expected. These problems range from non-responsive devices to unrecognized USBs and more. This blog post aims to help you troubleshoot and fix some of the most common USB connection problems on a Windows machine.
USB Device Not Recognized
One of the most common issues is seeing a “USB Device Not Recognized” error message. Here’s how you can address this:
Try a Different USB Port
Sometimes, the issue lies with the USB port itself and not with the device. Try plugging your USB device into a different port.
Restart Your System
An oldie but goodie – turn off your computer and then turn it back on. This can often fix numerous software and hardware issues.
Update Device Drivers
If Windows doesn’t recognize your device, the device drivers might be outdated. To update, go to Device Manager (right-click the Start button > Device Manager), locate your device, right-click on it, and select ‘Update Driver.’ Choose ‘Search automatically for updated driver software’ and follow the prompts.
Uninstall and Reinstall the Device: Still in Device Manager, you can also try uninstalling the device (right-click > Uninstall device). Disconnect the device, restart your system, then reconnect the device. Windows should automatically install the device.
USB Device Not Working
Sometimes your device gets recognized but doesn’t work. Here’s what you can do:
Check Device Compatibility
Ensure that your USB device is compatible with your Windows version. Check the manufacturer’s website or user manual for compatibility information.
Update USB Controllers
In Device Manager, expand the ‘Universal Serial Bus controllers’ section. Right-click each USB Root Hub and USB Host Controller, select ‘Update Driver,’ and follow the prompts.
Disable Selective Suspend Setting
Power management settings in Windows can sometimes affect USB performance. Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options > Change Plan Settings > Change Advanced Power Settings. Expand ‘USB settings’ > ‘USB selective suspend setting,’ set it to ‘Disabled,’ then click OK.
USB Device Not Providing Enough Power
Some USB devices require more power than your computer’s USB port can provide, leading to connection issues.
Use a Powered USB Hub
Powered USB hubs can provide the necessary power to operate high-demand devices. These hubs come with their power supply, alleviating the power demand on your computer.
Check Power Management Settings for USB Hub
In Device Manager, right-click on the ‘USB Root Hub,’ select ‘Properties,’ then go to the ‘Power Management’ tab. Uncheck the box that says ‘Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power’ and click OK.
Last Words
Remember, while this guide covers many common problems, it is not exhaustive. In some cases, the issue could be with the device itself, not with the USB connection. Always consult with the device’s manufacturer if the problem persists.
That said, with patience and the right tools at your disposal, many common USB connection problems can be fixed right from your Windows computer. Now go forth, and may your connections be strong and your devices ever-recognizable!