I received a used PC from a friend, but whenever I connect a keyboard or mouse, Windows reports that an unknown USB device needs more power than the port can provide. I tried every USB port, including the ones on the front and back, but neither input device works. Since I can't use a keyboard or mouse, I'm not sure how to follow the usual troubleshooting steps. What should I check, and is this likely a hardware problem?
3 Answers
If the devices are connected through an unpowered USB hub, remove the hub and plug the keyboard and mouse straight into the PC. A powered hub might work around a weak USB power supply, but if direct connections fail too, the computer likely has an underlying hardware issue.
Try the USB ports directly on the back of the computer instead of the front-panel ports. The front ports use an internal cable that may be loose or damaged. Also inspect the ports with a flashlight or magnifying glass for dust, bent contacts, or bits of metal. If every rear port gives the same error, it points more toward a motherboard or USB power fault than a Windows setting.
A normal keyboard or mouse connected directly to the computer should not trigger a power-limit warning. First, test both devices on another computer if possible, and ask your friend whether these ports worked before. If they work elsewhere, the problem is probably with this PC rather than the peripherals.
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