Solved External Hard Drive not recognized

[MrGriffin]

So every time I plug my external hard drive in it pops up with a message saying it is not recognized. This is followed by a message saying device driver not installed correctly.

I have tried uninstalling it from the Device Manager section and then plugging it in (this worked shortly after the first time I did it but has not worked again since). Also there is another section under the Device Manager heading called other devices that does lists Ethernet Controller, PCI Device, SM Bus Controller, USB Controller, all have the yellow exclamation mark next to them.

Windows has been unable to find any device driver update either when I try. Any suggestions? Sorry if this question isn't laid out well this is my first time on these forums. Thanks for your help!

 

[DocBrown]

Welcome Mr Griffin

What is the make & model of the Ext HD ? Did it come with any install CD/DVD ? Have you checked the website of the mfg of the Ext HD for any updates ?

 

[Mellon Head]

There is probably a driver package available from Sony for your laptop. It sounds like you're missing either the chipset drivers or the mainboard drivers or they've become corrupt. Get the drivers right from the manufacturer for a laptop rather than depending on Windows to get the right ones. The drivers for laptops tend to be "special" and are optimized for the hardware.

You'll need the model number of your laptop when you go to the Sony site for the drivers. Don't forget to download the right ones for your operating system.

 

[MrGriffin]

Thanks for the welcome and the help. My external HD is a Buffalo HD-PUSU3 and I have downloaded the driver for it from the website but and tried to manually install but then it says the most up to date driver is already installed with the USB icon and 'Unknown Device' next to it.

I'll check to see if I can update the drivers from Sony.

 

[MrGriffin]

I downloaded and installed the chipset driver (Sony eSupport - SVT13115FDS - Drivers & Software) from Sony for my laptop, correct model and all, but still nothing. The yellow exclamation marks haven't gone away.

 

[ComputerGeek]

Looks like you have USB 3.0 ports?

Odd, but Sony has the 3.0 driver listed under Wireless LAN group. Install the USB 3.0 controller drivers.

Also the Network drivers and under System Components, the Intel Management Engine driver

 

[MrGriffin]

Did all that and.....it works! Thanks a ton for your help.