Hey guys I wonder if any of you can help me out with this problem-

I dont know whats going on with my USB port - I seem to be able to use my external hard disk, but my computer wont let me use or install any other USB devices such as my mp3 player or mouse. The mouse is supposed to be just plug and play - it didnt come with any software!

Thanks for any help you can offer

NeilIs your USB port USB1.1 or USB2.0? If you open Device Manager and expand the section for Universal Serial Bus controllers, do you see an item for "Enhanced Host Controller"? Does Device Manager show all USB devices as working properly?

Do you have ports of front and back? Have you tried them all? Hey soybean, i have usb 2.0, its a relatively new laptop and ive had this problem since i first bought it.

In the usb section of device manager it has a LIST of ten things - Enhanced Host Controller 5 times and USB Root Hub 5 times. They are all (apparently!) working properly. I have 3 ports, 2 at the front and 1 at the back and have tried them all.

Argh!Some USB devices pull power from the USB BUS .... Usually you will get a USB Overload blat that will pop up for a second in the bottom tray. Sometimes it willnot report this problem.

I would suggest buying a (5 port Externally Powered USB HUB ), to have your devices powered and communicated through for less than $20. This will put the load on the USB HUBs ac adapter and keep the load off of your USB BUS and PC Power Supply. Be sure the USB HUB comes with an AC Adapter, as some cheap HUBs are mislabeled as External Powered, and dot come with the AC Apapter. Also some have a small switch to tell the USB HUB to power devices from AC Adapter or off the USB BUS. Be sure that this is switched in the AC Adapter Powered Position.

This problem is more common in older desktop computers with less USB BUS power from smaller wattage power supplies and laptops.
I'd bet DaveLembke hit the nail on the head. In CONNECTION with his suggestion, tino2k, was your external hard drive powered by an AC adapter? Oh right I never knew that would be the case. Yep my external hard drive is powered by an AC adapter. I will TAKE your advice and opt for the externally powered USB HUB. If I cant use a simple mouse or even an mp3 player then what kind of USB devices are there that don't pull power (to such an extent to overload) the USB BUS? I'm just wondering if I'll actually ever be able to use my USB ports without them overloading..

Thanks very MUCH for your advice