1. You are viewing our forum as a guest. For full access please Register. WindowsBBS.com is completely free, paid for by advertisers and donations.

sata external usb drive compatiblility

Discussion in 'PC Hardware' started by conrite, 2010/02/13.

  1. 2010/02/13
    conrite

    conrite Inactive Thread Starter

    Joined:
    2010/02/13
    Messages:
    2
    Likes Received:
    0
    I purchased a new "rock" usb external drive on ebay, and have not been able to install to my existing usb port, which works with everything else. the box says that is is compatible with windows xp. also supports millinium edition. My system is running xp media edition. :confused:my question is is there a difference in xp versions as far as usb drivers. it won't recognize any of my drivers.
     
    conrite,
    #1
  2. 2010/02/14
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

    Joined:
    2002/05/10
    Messages:
    28,896
    Likes Received:
    389
    Welcome to WindowsBBS :)

    All versions of XP contain the same USB drivers - USB was updated from USB 1 to USB 2 in one or other of the Service Packs, but any USB 2 device will run on USB 1 - at USB 1 speed.

    When you plug in the drive does it show in Windows Explorer - I guess not, but does it show up in Disk Management (Start > Run > diskmgmt.msc > Enter) and is a drive letter assigned?

    Are you sure that the drive is powering up?
     
    PeteC,
    #2


  3. to hide this advert.

  4. 2010/02/14
    kimsland

    kimsland Inactive

    Joined:
    2009/02/12
    Messages:
    356
    Likes Received:
    3
    This is not exactly correct
    Yes the USB device will run on USB1.1 even if it states USB2 minimum
    But Windows may not use the device effectively and incorrect information may be provided, including not showing in Windows Explorer.
    This is also relevant to older USB cables that do not allow USB2 to function correctly.
    Device running USB1 does not equal Windows and hardware normal performance on USB2. Hence the update

    Please try plugging in your new "rock" usb external drive directly to a USB2 port on your computer.
    Does it show now?
     
    kimsland,
    #3
  5. 2010/02/14
    conrite

    conrite Inactive Thread Starter

    Joined:
    2010/02/13
    Messages:
    2
    Likes Received:
    0
    Thank. you PeteC. I'm sorry I didn't specifiy that I have USB2 ports. Yes the light does come on. No there is no listing of recognition under disk management. I've never had any problem with the port before, and I also tried plugging in both usb connectors to remedy a possible power descrepency, as this was advised by someone.
     
    conrite,
    #4
  6. 2010/02/14
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

    Joined:
    2002/05/10
    Messages:
    28,896
    Likes Received:
    389
    Does the drive have an external power supply - I rather suspect not as you mention a dual USB cable.

    If the drive is powered off the USB ports both USB cables should be plugged in. I have a couple of 2 1/2" external USB powered drives and neither will work without both USB cables plugged in.

    If you are using front ports try rear ports (desktop) - sometimes the power to the front ports is less than that to the rear (hard wired) ports AFAIK.

    Can you try the drive on another computer?
     
    PeteC,
    #5
  7. 2010/02/14
    wildfire

    wildfire Getting Old

    Joined:
    2008/04/21
    Messages:
    4,649
    Likes Received:
    124
    Alternatively you could try a powered USB Hub if you have one available.

    To be honest I'm not keen on something as (relatively) power hungry as a HD being connected directly to the computer.
     
    wildfire,
    #6

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Accept Learn More...