Windows 7: USB hub keeps disconnecting

I couple of months ago I bought a Targus 2.0 4 Port USB hub which is powered by the computer and it has never really worked right. It is recognized by the computer and everything and sometimes it will work fine for a while but then all of a sudden it will start disconnecting and reconnecting and I have to stop using it for a while. I have a brand new HP Pavilion that I only just bought also a couple of months ago around the same time. I use my laptop as my main computer with an external display and so I usually have plugged in a wireless mouse, a usb keyboard, and my iPhone cable...but I also have a printer usb cable and usb headphones for gaming which is why I bought the hub. But it's kind of hard to use the hub when all of a sudden my mouse stops working or I have the headphones on and the sound just stops. Any ideas?

Absolutlely a power problem. USB (5.0 volts) usually can only provide power to 3 or 4 devices add more and the voltage will drop when it does the devices stop working. the cure buy a "Powered" hub that has an AC adapter.

In addition, try to make sure you're not using a 'front' USB port. Oftentimes, the mobo manufacturer's will skimp on power output to 'accessory' USB ports, whereas the ones going directly to the motherboard via the back panel will get the benefit of the full 5V of voltage with required Amperage.

But Zig's recommendation is correct - a powered USB HUB is the only way to fly. I personally have one of these: CPH420P - USB Hubs | CyberPower Systems, Inc. - that I picked up at a local Wal-Mart (in the US) for ~$20 USD over 2 years ago. Still kicking, and never giving me issues.

Actually all the USB ports are on the side of the laptop, two on the right one on the left. But I will definitely look into your suggestions of buying a powered hub. Thanks so much!

I have posted a solution that worked for me:

http://www.computers.nepalesemap.com...p?topic=1555.0