Missing USB White Piece -> Over current problem

Question

Recently, a USB cord was ripped out of a port in my computer.

When it happened, it ripped out a piece of the port- the little white plastic insert that's in all of the ports.

Here's an example picture of a USB port (NOT mine), you can see the little white thing I'm referring to:

However, now, when I try to boot up my computer, I get a black screen, white text that says something like "Warning! USB device over current detected. Remove over-current USB device!". What could be causing this problem?

Answer 1

The white piece holds the data and power contacts that form part of the port. If that's missing then all or part of the contacts are gone too and it sounds like what's been left behind is shorting out between the contacts and/or the metalwork surrounding the port. Sounds like a repair job.

Answer 2

I'm afraid that you'll most likely have to replace the port.

The ports themselves aren't very expensive (they are around $0.8 here), but you need to know where to look. Normal computer parts stores don't stock them. Instead you'd need a store for electronics engineers. If you don't know such a place, here's a starting point (you'll probably be able to find a port such as one you need on the list). Here's another. Another popular supplier is http://www.digikey.com, but I don't know how to link to their search results.

The second problem is to replace the port itself. You'll need lots of soldering experience or someone with lots of soldering experience. If you don't know how to replace the part, it's be best to look for electronics repairman and have him get the replacement part. This way, you'll be sure that you'll get right part. Do note that many computer repair technicians will most likely tell you that you have to replace entire board. That's the reason why it may be a better idea to look for TV technician or some other type which is actually used to repairing things and not just replacing components.

About the error itself: As far as I know, it is specified by USB standard that if the port detects short-circuit it should power down and OS should notify user. This way damage which would normally result is avoided. Many motherboards don't have good protection, so I'd say you're lucky that it's still working.

Answer 3

I work in a school. One of the computers here suffered similar damage. We were able to remove the board that controlled the damaged USB port. It meant that we lost both front USB ports [there were two on this board] but the PC was bootable and usable again without any financial outlay.

HTH.