USB devices not showing

[Engeloid]

Hi,

I'm hoping you can help with what is hopefully a basic problem!  I have an old laptop which I have recently rebuilt with Windows XP, but none of the 3 USB ports seem to work.  In Device Manager, it lists 4 USB controllers for 3 USB hubs, and the 4th controller shows an error.  It won't let me install a driver for it either - I get a Code 10 error.  If I disable it, the USB ports still don't work.

When I go into safe mode, USB devices do work, although I still can't sort out the device manager problem.  I have found an unofficial bios update for a Compal CL50 but not sure how to update it, or if that would even fix the problem!

Any help would be gratefully received!

[patio]

One method you can try prior to a MBoard driver re-install:
In Device Manager right click EVERY instance of USB Roots and Hubs and select Remove...you will recieve a Warning...ignore it.
Power down the machine.
After a few minutes power up...Windows will automatically re-install the USB roots and hubs.

Have as few USB devices hooked up as possible when you try this.

NOTE: I'd strongly advise against a BIOS flash...many expensive doorstops have been created this way...especially of the laptop variety.
Next step would be to travel to the laptop manuf. website and DLoad and install the MBoard drivers...Chipset drivers FIRST.

[Engeloid]

Hi,

Cheers, but I've tried this and the same thing happens everytime the laptop gets booted back up again!

[patio]

You've tried what ? ?
There were more than one suggestion in my Post...

[Engeloid]

Apologies - I meant I'd tried all of your suggestions.

[patio]

It sounds like a Windows issue...since they work properly in safemode...
Go to Start/Run and type in sfc /scannow and hit Enter...
Have your XP CD handy as it will ask for it.
Let it finish and re-boot.

[Engeloid]

Thanks for this.  I thought the same, about it being a Windows issue so I did a complete reinstall of Windows XP again and the same thing stil happens.

I don't have the laptop now - its been passed to the person I was preparing it for - but I'll give this a try next chance I see them anyway.