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Do you know how to fix USB connectivity problems in laptops?

Hello there. I have a Compaq EVO N160 notebook that has malfunctioning USB ports. I think I must have shorted the circuitry when I inadvertently connected the wrong (12V instead of 5v) voltage power cable to an external DVD/CD combo unit that was connected to one of the USB ports. Since then, both my combo unit and laptop USB connectivity has not worked. I tried to fix it by replacing the USB sub-board (I did this twice) but still could not get USB connectivity. I also tried to get USB connectivity by getting USB 2.0 card bus for the PCMCIA but still no luck. The damage must have occurred on the motherboard. I have since been looking to replace the motherboard (Part 251368-001) but the cost is not justifiable. Can anyone steer me in the right direction? Is there any reasonably easy fix solution that would not need me to replace the motherboard (which would cost over $200)? I also have another problem in that the computer cuts out unexpectedly every 20 mins or so and I have to re-start it every time. What could this be?

Public Comments

1. If your laptop has a serial or PS-2 port get a serial/PS-2 to USB converter which will give you USB connectivity. I think the problem as described by you is not linked to the hardware. Try reinstalling the USB drivers if that helps.
2. Bid on this whole computer> http://cgi.ebay.com/COMPAQ-EVO-NOTEBOOK-N160-PIII-M-1-2-GHz-WINDOWS-XP_W0QQitemZ190098396785QQcategoryZ140082QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem