Because installation of these devices is usually automatic, trying to fix USB device problems when they appear can be hard. Here are some suggestions and tips.

Loose Connections and Plugs

If you get a message from Windows saying it cannot recognize the device, try reattaching it. It has to be firmly linked to be seen and added to the system. If it is loose, you will get the error message. Also, you should look for any loose wiring around the PC. This can affect Windows’ ability to recognize newly installed devices too.

Using Windows Add New Hardware Tools

If your version of Windows is XP, you can use Add New Hardware to detect new components. Trying this option can help fix USB device problems. In Windows XP, click the Start Menu and choose Control Panel. Double click the Add New Hardware icon. Let Windows run a scan of all devices on the system.

If the device does not appear you can choose to add it manually. Follow the onscreen instructions for adding the hardware. In some cases you may need to reboot the system.

Turning off Power Management

If the above mentioned suggestions do not help, try this one. Right click the Start Menu and choose Search. Type “devmgmt.msc”. When the file appears double click it. You will now be able to access the Universal Serial Bus properties. Choose root hub and select Power Management. Remove the check mark on “allow computer to turn off this device”. While this can fix USB device problems it can reduce the battery life on notebook PCs.

Updating Drivers

Sometimes the problem is in the drivers. By updating those for your OS and the device (if there are any), you might be able to resolve the issue.

Installing when in Standby Mode

If you install the hardware while your PC is in standby mode, chances are it will not be recognized. Wait ten to fifteen seconds after emerging from standby before plugging in a component. If you had already plugged it in, remove it. Wait for ten to fifteen seconds and reattach it.

Using Device Manager

Besides the Add New Hardware icon, you can use the Device Manager to fix USB device problems. Just enter Devmgmt.msc in the Run command line. Go to Action, and click scan. Windows will now look for all devices attached or being attached to the system.

Other Possible Solutions

After plugging in the device, reboot the system. Normally this step would not be necessary but there are times when it does help. Also you should check the user guide for any information and troubleshooting tips. If there is a readme.txt file check it out too. Remember to visit the vendor’s website as it may contain more facts about the hardware not included in the manual.

Most of the time, you won’t have any problems setting these components as they are plug and play. But knowing how to fix USB device problems is critical. You might not just be able to help others, but also yourself.