What causes a usb power surge?

Question

I have 4 usb ports on my computer and only the one with my printer on it works. What causes a power surge and how can I fix it? I bought an external usb port but it doesn't work. I keep getting the power surge error. Also, how can I find what speed my current usb ports are? ie; 2.0 or 1.1

Answer 1

It could happen when you plug a device that exceeds the capability of the USB port. However if the error keeps popping out even when you have a low power device or none at all, try response #4 by Abdell in this link:

http://www.computing.net/windowsxp/wwwboard/forum/148172.html

Answer 2

If your computer has been sitting undisturbed for awhile dust may build up inside and cause electrical leaks that can sometimes manifest as USB power surges. Invest in some canned air and clean out the dust bunnies from your computer.
If that doesn't work you can try disconnecting your printer, it may be sucking up the power from your internal USB hub and not leaving enough for any other devices to work.
Or the third option is your USB ports went bad and you will need to either install more or replace the ones you have, there are USB port cards you can install to add USB ports.
USB 2.0 ports are sometimes called "High Speed" USB ports, if they are not labeled 2.0 or "High Speed" then they are probably USB 1.x ports.