Both USB ports on laptop suddenly stopped working

Try it. Can't hurt, might help.

OK. I read up on some things. Here is the deal:

Some USB powered external hard drives need more power than others. Sometimes two versions of the same model can use slightly different amounts of juice. The instances of USB powered devices not getting enough juice from laptop USB ports is quite common. But there are some solutions to try:

Check the laptop manufacturer's website to see if there are any upgrades for the laptop: drivers or firmware.

Use a shorter cable. The longer the cable - the more ohms of resistance - the more power required. A "heftier" cable can overcome this too. My Go Flex comes with a heavy 12" cable. People complain about this cable constantly, but I am sure this is why they did that.

Use a "USB Dual Header Cable". This is a special cable that has 2 USB connectors at one end to double the power. But it may be difficult to find one of these to fit a GoFlex if it has that special small connector like mine does.
http://www.amazon.com/Connectland-CL...4892844&sr=8-1

Use an externally powered USB hub.