Why does my computer turn off when I try to plug in a USB cord?

Question

Almost every time I try to plug in a USB cord into my front-mounted USB ports on my computer, the computer immediately shuts down or restarts when the metal off the cord comes into contact with the metal of the port. They don't even have to be connected... it's pretty strange. And annoying. Why???

Answer 1

Cuz its a piece of CRAP.
Get a new computer.

Answer 2

Hmmm that sounds like something earthing on your pc case or similar.

Because if this is happening before the device is inserted this is a power problem or short circuit type thing.

You should check the internal power supply switch and cord within your computer system. Or could even be just the button problem.

Call your local Computer Service Technician or:

(Read all before you start, if your not comfortable with the DIY job call a TECHY)

Only do this with the POWER CORD OUT!!!

You will have to take the covers off your system unit and maybe the front face cover.


Step 1

First check if your front usb port cord running from the from face of your pc are plugged into the correct place on your motherboard. You may have to look your motherboard up if its not written on the motherboard itself.

If they are not in the correct place then find the correct place and put them there.

Re-assemble the pc, plug in cords, put case back together and try it.

If the same problem occurs procceed to Step 2.


Step 2

If they are in the correct place then:

To be safe wait a minute or two before you touch the internal power cord. (connected to the internal power supply and the front switch)

Investigate the cord running from the power supply the square box at the back of your pc. The cord should be leading to the switch (button) in the front face of your pc.

To get a clear view of the switch you may have to remove the IDE cables if any. (Remember where these go!!)


Step 3

Ensure the cord itself is not damaged in anyway.

If so then i recomend replacing the entire power supply.

if not then check the switch make sure this is not touching the case.

The switch is behind the plastic button you use to power on the machine. The switch maybe in an unusually position causing it to EARTH on your pc case.

Because if this is happening before the device is inserted this is a power problem or short circuit type thing.


Hope that helps - Good Luck

Answer 3

First answer may be correct. Either you cord is bad (Try a different one) or the USB is bad on the computer. Another thing you may check if it a metal chassis. Take a flashlight and look close at the plug on the computer. Is it lined up correctly will the hole. If it not lined up well or loose the outer metal of the cord may be shorting on the chassis and that the problem. True that is a ground, but, if there any difference in chassis ground and MOBO ground it may be your problem.

Answer 4

Your USB cord is causing a short on the +5V power supply rail. The overload protection of the power supply is activating auto shutdown to prevent further damage. Stop using either the cord or the front USB port.

Answer 5

it really is vitally confusing to provide suitable answer besides the indisputable fact that i wager the problem is capacity appropriate.you observe USB contraptions draw cutting-edge from motherboard and if for any reason the necessary load won't be able to be provided through the motherboard,every time you plug in any USB gadget the suystem is both shutdown or reset to guard itself,.

Answer 6

Sounds like you have a short in the system. Your gonna have to replace the defective hardware.