F5F Stay Refreshed Software Operating Systems Connecting an external hard drive can turn off all other USB ports.

Connecting an external hard drive can turn off all other USB ports.

Connecting an external hard drive can turn off all other USB ports.

T
Takare
Junior Member
45
07-10-2023, 08:17 AM
#1
She has an old WD external hard drive that she wants to use. It worked fine when plugged in, but the wireless USB mouse stopped working right away and didn't appear in Windows Explorer or Disk Management. Once the drive was unplugged, the mouse reconnected. How can I make the hard drive function correctly again?
T
Takare
07-10-2023, 08:17 AM #1

She has an old WD external hard drive that she wants to use. It worked fine when plugged in, but the wireless USB mouse stopped working right away and didn't appear in Windows Explorer or Disk Management. Once the drive was unplugged, the mouse reconnected. How can I make the hard drive function correctly again?

T
TheSlayerPL12
Junior Member
21
07-11-2023, 12:02 AM
#2
You might have to remove it and link it to an internal SATA port or relocate it in another case. If it’s detachable, you’d need to pop it out and check the model number online or by opening it.
T
TheSlayerPL12
07-11-2023, 12:02 AM #2

You might have to remove it and link it to an internal SATA port or relocate it in another case. If it’s detachable, you’d need to pop it out and check the model number online or by opening it.

H
hughesywizard
Member
145
07-12-2023, 04:48 AM
#3
USB ports share a single fuse that can reset itself after being triggered. Your device is drawing excessive power, causing the fuse to activate. This problem often appears in older or defective systems where the fuse malfunctions prematurely. It might also stem from poor design. Consider using a different USB port, such as the front ones, which usually operate on separate circuits and fuses.
H
hughesywizard
07-12-2023, 04:48 AM #3

USB ports share a single fuse that can reset itself after being triggered. Your device is drawing excessive power, causing the fuse to activate. This problem often appears in older or defective systems where the fuse malfunctions prematurely. It might also stem from poor design. Consider using a different USB port, such as the front ones, which usually operate on separate circuits and fuses.

B
bengalwatcher
Posting Freak
801
07-12-2023, 10:36 AM
#4
I've tested every USB port but still nothing Sad
B
bengalwatcher
07-12-2023, 10:36 AM #4

I've tested every USB port but still nothing Sad

M
Mr_Floobiful
Posting Freak
890
07-14-2023, 03:12 AM
#5
It's worth checking if your laptop supports direct USB connections for storage devices. Since you're not using a desktop, you might need to explore alternative methods like using a hub or a different adapter setup that fits your current hardware.
M
Mr_Floobiful
07-14-2023, 03:12 AM #5

It's worth checking if your laptop supports direct USB connections for storage devices. Since you're not using a desktop, you might need to explore alternative methods like using a hub or a different adapter setup that fits your current hardware.

T
Tugger01
Junior Member
21
07-15-2023, 09:49 PM
#6
It might be a faulty USB cable. If not, you could check by removing the casing and testing with an SATA adapter. Also, confirm the device’s age to ensure compatibility.
T
Tugger01
07-15-2023, 09:49 PM #6

It might be a faulty USB cable. If not, you could check by removing the casing and testing with an SATA adapter. Also, confirm the device’s age to ensure compatibility.

H
headphonebone
Junior Member
1
07-15-2023, 11:05 PM
#7
Use an active USB hub for better performance.
H
headphonebone
07-15-2023, 11:05 PM #7

Use an active USB hub for better performance.