USB Type C Adapter Not Working on Windows: How to Solve Common USB Issues?

USB Type C adapter devices are essential for connecting external devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, and USB drivers to your computer. While occasional USB may arise, in this article we’ll help you identify and solve common USB issues easily, including USB C and Thunderbolt connections.

Identifying USB Issues

Understanding the symptoms of a malfunctioning USB port helps diagnose the problem effectively. Here are some common signs that indicate a problem with USB:

• Device Not Recognized: When you plug in a USB device, Windows does not recognize it, and it may not show up in File Explorer or Device Manager.
• Error Messages: You may notice specific error messages such as “USB Device Not Recognized”. See other common USB-related error messages.
• Intermittent Connectivity: The USB device connects and disconnects sporadically, making it unreliable to use.
• Slow Data Transfer: Transferring files from a USB to USB C device to your computer are unusually slow.

Common Error Messages and Their Causes

When experiencing USB issues, you might encounter different types of error messages. Here are some common ones along with their potential causes.

• “USB Device Not Recognized“: This can occur due to outdated or corrupted drivers, a faulty USB port, or a malfunctioning device.
• “Power Surge on the USB Port“: This message indicates that a connected device has malfunctioned and is drawing more power than the USB port can supply, or when the connected device requires more power than what the USB port can provide. It can happen even when no devices are connected if there is an underlying hardware issue or residual connection information.
• “Overvoltage on USB Port“: This error suggests that a USB device is not functioning properly and has exceeded the power limits of its USB hub. It often requires disconnecting the device to reset the port.
• “The last USB device you connected to this computer malfunctioned“: This message typically indicates that the device itself is defective or that there is an issue with the USB port.
• “Device Descriptor Request Failed“: This indicates a problem with the USB device’s descriptor, often due to hardware issues or a faulty cable.
• “This device cannot start (Code 10)“: This error suggests that the driver for the device is not installed correctly or is incompatible with Windows.

How to Solve USB Issues in Windows

Whether you’re experiencing issues with USB, USB to USB C, or Thunderbolt ports, these instructions will guide you through the process of diagnosing and fixing common USB issues effectively. Let’s get started!

Check for Physical Damage

Before we start applying software fixes, let’s inspect the USB port and your USB device for damage:

1. Ensure the port is free of dust or debris. Use a can of compressed air to carefully clean it.
2. Check for bent pins or loose connections.
3. Test the USB device on another computer to rule out device-related issues.

Physical damage is a common reason for USB port failure and identifying it early can save time.

Restart Your Computer

A simple restart can resolve many issues. It refreshes the system and may automatically install missing drivers for your USB devices.

Change USB Ports

Sometimes, the issue may be with a specific port. Disconnect your USB type C adapter device and try connecting it to a different port on your computer. If the device works on a different, run a USB diagnostic test on your computer.

Check BIOS Settings

Ensure that USB ports are enabled in your BIOS settings, as they can sometimes be disabled.

1. Turn on or restart your computer.
2. Press the F2 key repeatedly as the computer starts.
3. In the BIOS settings, locate USB Configuration or USB Ports, usually under Integrated Devices.
4. Ensure the Enable USB Ports or Enable External USB ports is checked.
5. Save changes and exit.
6. Verify if the USB device works.

USB option is enabled, but the USB device is still not recognized? Proceed to the next step.

Update Drivers and BIOS

Outdated drivers or BIOS can cause connectivity problems. The BIOS controls hardware functionality, including USB ports.

1. Search for your computer SupportAssist in the Start menu and open the app.
2. On the Home tab, select Update software.
3. Click Start to check for driver and BIOS updates.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation and restart your computer if prompted.

Adjust Power Management Settings

Windows may disable or turn off USB devices to save power. To adjust this setting in Windows:

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
3. Right-click on a USB Root Hub, select Properties, then go to the Power Management tab.
4. Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
5. Repeat for all USB Root Hubs.
6. Restart your computer and verify if the USB device works.

Disabling power-saving options ensures USB ports remain functional. If the USB port still doesn’t work, let’s try the next step.

Disable Selective Suspend

This feature in Windows can interfere with USB devices. To disable it:

1. Search for Edit Power Plan in the Start menu.
2. Click on Change advanced power settings.
3. Expand USB settings, then USB selective suspend settings.
4. Set it to Disabled.
5. Restart your computer and verify if the USB device works.

If disabling selective suspend didn’t work or if USB selective suspend option is not available, pls contact ONext’s customer services.

USB ports are still not working? Try some additional steps to resolve USB issues.

FAQs About USB Type C Adapter