Every time I start my PC, I get the warning: "Over current have been detected on your USB device. The system will shut down after 15 seconds to protect the motherboard." I disconnected every external USB device and cable, then opened the case and unplugged the internal USB headers, but the warning still appears. Before this started, Windows repeatedly showed a "Power surge on the USB port" notification. Now the computer shuts down before I can reach Windows. The motherboard is an MSI B550 Tomahawk Max WiFi purchased about a month ago. What could still be causing the short, and what should I check before replacing the board?
4 Answers
If the board has an M.2 Wi-Fi card installed, remove it temporarily too. Bluetooth on those cards commonly uses an internal USB connection, so it could still be part of the affected USB bus even with the case ports disconnected.
A damaged rear USB port is easy to overlook. Look for a bent pin or a broken tongue inside the ports, especially if a cable was pulled sideways. Since the board is relatively new and the overcurrent message remains after removing all USB headers, documenting the troubleshooting and contacting MSI or the seller for an RMA would be reasonable.
This sounds like a short or failure somewhere on the motherboard’s USB controller or USB power rail. Check every rear USB port closely for a bent contact, damaged plastic insert, debris, or anything touching the outer shell. Also inspect the case’s front USB ports for a spill, loose metal, or a broken connector. If the warning continues with all internal USB headers disconnected, the motherboard itself may need to be replaced under warranty.
Try entering the BIOS and disabling USB support temporarily, if that option is available. It won’t repair the underlying problem, but it can help confirm whether the system can remain powered on with USB disabled. Disconnect unnecessary USB-related devices, including internal Bluetooth or Wi-Fi modules, while testing.
I’ll try removing that as well—thanks for the suggestion.