Broken USB port already?

MadSupra354 · 13 May 2011

I built a PC about 2 months ago with a Cooler Master Storm Scout, and for some reason, one of the USB ports isn't working.
If I connect my camera, the camera will notice that USB has connected, but Windows 7 won't.
I bought my PSU and case in a bundle. The case had about 5-6 4-Pin Molex, but my PSU only had 4 connectors.
I just connected all I could, I switched them around until all the fans worked. I probably should have switched off the 120mm at the back, since I have a cooler pushing air through the top of the case.
Anyway, I've already broken the warranty for cutting out a chunk of metal so my graphics card could fit. I don't know if the USB port it's actually broken, or I can tweak some things so it will work. It's the second one starting from the left:

marsmimar · 13 May 2011

I'm guessing you've already checked to make sure all wiring at the USB port is intact and nothing came apart. I'd give the Windows 7 troubleshooter a try (type troubleshooting in the start menu search box or go to control panel > troubleshooting.) I'd also go to Device Manager and make sure your USB controllers are working properly.

I found out the hard way that plugging and unplugging devices can quickly destroy USB ports whether on a laptop or a desktop. I've gotten into the habit of using a USB hub with an external power source. Plug it in once and leave it plugged in. It's cheaper and easier (less time consuming) to replace the hub than to troubleshoot and repair/replace a port, especially on a laptop.

MadSupra354 · 13 May 2011

OK, I tried plugging a USB Flash Drive into the "broken" USB Port, and searched for 'Hardware and Device' and it detected that Windows Update isn't automatically installing the drivers. Since I've used this before on other ports, would it matter? If so, how would one manually configure Windows Update to install drivers?

marsmimar · 13 May 2011

From the start menu search box type in change device installation settings and then select the same at the top. You should get a dialog box called Device Installation Settings with an option to download driver software manually or automatically.

You could also go back in to Device Manager and double click the USB controller for that "broken" port. A "Properties" dialog box should open. Click on the Driver tab and you should see an Update Driver button.

If the port is still functional (not really broke) but just missing its driver, this tutorial may help determine the manufacturer and hopefully allow download from the mfg's website.

Hardware Identification

MadSupra354 · 13 May 2011

Which folder are USB's under in Device Manager? This is what I see...

A Guy · 14 May 2011

Human Interface Devices

A Guy

MadSupra354 · 14 May 2011

Hmm...I only seem to have 3 USB Input Devices.

A Guy · 14 May 2011

Are you looking for USB devices connected to your PC, or the actual USB inputs on the entire PC? I may have misunderstood, sorry.

A Guy

MadSupra354 · 14 May 2011

A Guy said:

Are you looking for USB devices connected to your PC, or the actual USB inputs on the entire PC? I may have misunderstood, sorry.

A Guy

I'm talking about the USB inputs on the case.

essenbe · 15 May 2011

The last entry in Device manager is USB Seraial Bus controllers. Expand that and show a screenshot.