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View Full Version : [ubuntu] Frustrating USB Problem

ndo
May 18th, 2008, 05:30 PM
Hi.
I've installed Heron 8.04 64 on my Acer Aspire 5100-5840 Turion 64 x2.
My problem: When I boot up the computer with USB devices attached, the OS recognizes them and I have full accessibility.HOWEVER, when I try to add a USB device after the computer is already turned on, I get nothing. No recognition. No device. If the device isn't connected when the OS boots, then it won't be recognized - basically, USB is broken(?)

I'm losing patience with this issue - it doesn't seem that anyone else is having this problem, or if they are, they aren't talking about it on forums. I did find a topic concerning this on a launchpad page (https://answers.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+question/4272) but I'm a linux STFUN00B, so I'm left even more confused after looking at that. I'd really welcome all ideas on how to find a solution for this infuriating problem - thanks in advance for any help.
garyedwardjohnston
May 18th, 2008, 06:15 PM
I got pissed with USB devices too but it is a Linux kernel problem, not Ubuntu.

Disable High Speed (2.0) capability from BIOS then they work properly.
ndo
May 26th, 2008, 07:53 AM
I got pissed with USB devices too but it is a Linux kernel problem, not Ubuntu.

Disable High Speed (2.0) capability from BIOS then they work properly.

Really? I have no idea how to even do what you're talking about, but I guess that's what google is for.

But, am I correct in assuming that disabling 2.0 will leave me with functioning - but cripplingly slow - USB xfer speeds? If so, I find it hard to believe that a platform with as much developmental support as Linux would have issues with basic USB funcionality...
ndo
May 30th, 2008, 04:32 PM
Uhm, anyone else got anything?

Pretty vague, not much help - though I do realize that its not homeboy's moral obligation to explain things by any means.

This is a real black mark against Ubuntu - how do I brag to my friends about this "bitchin' OS that won't read a thumb drive - awesome!!!"

Add this to:
No webcam
No wireless LAN
No DVD playback

This Ubuntu experience is actually making me appreciate Windows...SHAME!!!

End vent/rant. Any advice or links are really appreciated.
Tsurugi13
May 30th, 2008, 05:08 PM
It may be as simple as a bad port. My PC is three or so yrs. old and two of the USB ports give a power surge and shut down my other USB devices if I plug in a thumb drive.