[Q] Is my micro usb port broken? Help! - Acer Iconia A500

Guys,
I have a A501 32GB 3G model and I think my micro USB port might be broken.
I can't remember when but at some point, my computer stopped recognising my A501 when I connect to it via micro USB. For awhile I thought it might the custom ICS rom's fault as the normal USB port wouldn't work either, but when I reverted back to Honeycomb this week I noticed the normal USB would work, but my PC still couldn't recognise the tablet when connected via micro USB.
Is there any way to test the port? I don't even have a spare cable I can try to see if it's the cable's fault.
I'm planning a move overseas in a few weeks time so I don't think there's enough time to send it in for repair under warranty. What a hassle....
Has anyone experienced same problem? I don't really use it much but it bugs knowing something's broken when it's only 4 months old...
Thanks in advance.

Mine has intermittent issues, but in my case, it is the cheap cables I'm using.
I would go to Best Buy and pick up a cable (normally I would say order one from Newegg or somewhere like that, but it appears time is of the essence in your case) and see if that isn't the problem. Or...borrow a micro USB from a friend. Either way, try to eliminate the cable quickly (as that is the easiest and quickest route to go).
keejoonc said:
Guys,
I have a A501 32GB 3G model and I think my micro USB port might be broken.
I can't remember when but at some point, my computer stopped recognising my A501 when I connect to it via micro USB. For awhile I thought it might the custom ICS rom's fault as the normal USB port wouldn't work either, but when I reverted back to Honeycomb this week I noticed the normal USB would work, but my PC still couldn't recognise the tablet when connected via micro USB.
Is there any way to test the port? I don't even have a spare cable I can try to see if it's the cable's fault.
I'm planning a move overseas in a few weeks time so I don't think there's enough time to send it in for repair under warranty. What a hassle....
Has anyone experienced same problem? I don't really use it much but it bugs knowing something's broken when it's only 4 months old...
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

tkirton said:
Mine has intermittent issues, but in my case, it is the cheap cables I'm using.
I would go to Best Buy and pick up a cable (normally I would say order one from Newegg or somewhere like that, but it appears time is of the essence in your case) and see if that isn't the problem. Or...borrow a micro USB from a friend. Either way, try to eliminate the cable quickly (as that is the easiest and quickest route to go).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds good. But, I also might try re-loading the PC's drivers for Android also.
Never heard of a micro-usb going bad. Not yet anyhow.

Micro USbs fail on phones all the time, it usually happens when the user isn't delicate with the connection while unplugging or plugging in the cable. The port technically doesn't fail, but the soldering connection to the circuit board does. I would first look at a bad cable. Don't you own a cell phone?? Even Crapberry uses micro usb for its charging data cable now try your cable from your phone or digital camera??

Related

Hmm IS my USB port bad?

When I plug my phone in to my computer (an iMac if this matters) I get a warning that says A USB device is using too much power and one or more other USB devices have been disabled. IT hasn't always done this, just recently. Also The phone will sometimes become unmounted. Time for a new phone?
Try using a different USB cable/different port. I've been using an iMac with my Hero since October, no problems.
def try a different mini cable, make sure its one of the thicker ones, ive found the thinner ones dont transmit enough power causing the phone not to mount.
also try a different usb port on your computer you know works, like one in the back, or possibly a friends.
THEN blame the phone
im starting to have issues with my usb port or cable as well now. damn im on my 3rd hero replacement too.

Idea for permanent host-mode switch...

Got the idea a few days ago after looking at the full breakdown of the Xoom...
Here's the idea:
Remove the dock charge contact points, and install a micro switch in its place. With the switch in place, find the proper contact points for ground and the host-mode pin on the micro USB port. Solder some 30 AWG to the contact points on the board, then to the switch, and put everything back together.
This would give you the ability to use any USB cable as a host-mode cable, while only affecting charging on docking units. With the battery life of the Xoom, I don't see it as a deal breaker.
Thoughts?
Well, I only charge on the dock. Way to convenient not to have. I don't trust the standard chargers design to withstand me..
However if you are not a dock user, then it sounds like it would be cool.
Just my opinion, but it seems like a lot of risk and effort for not having to carry around a cable. I mean if you have the standard cable, you still need a male to male adapter to use any usb device. So either way you still need something else besides the standard USB cable. I would rather just have a USB host cable that already has the correct USB ends on it and still be able to use my charging dock.
Again just my opinion, YMMV.
HuckFinn said:
Just my opinion, but it seems like a lot of risk and effort for not having to carry around a cable. I mean if you have the standard cable, you still need a male to male adapter to use any usb device. So either way you still need something else besides the standard USB cable. I would rather just have a USB host cable that already has the correct USB ends on it and still be able to use my charging dock.
Again just my opinion, YMMV.
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Click to collapse
Well normally I'd agree with you, but it seems that most people are having issues getting good cables unless they buy the Motorola cable.
It's easier to find an adapter for the standard USB cable than it is to find an OTG cable as well.
Still just an idea, but I figured I'd see what everyone thought.
all you need is the Motorola Mini-USB to Micro-USB adapter, a USB extension cable and some scissors.
you'd to still carry around a Female-Female adapter for your USB cables with your idea, i'd rather not rip open my xoom and solder **** when the other option is easier.
Also, if you don't plan on upgrading to LTE, you could just wire up a USB port to the card slot for the LTE card, it should have USB routed to it.
LIV2 said:
Also, if you don't plan on upgrading to LTE, you could just wire up a USB port to the card slot for the LTE card, it should have USB routed to it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This actually sounds like a better idea... Was thinking of how I could add in a full-size USB port to remove the extra cable completely. USB out the top would also allow me to hook up an external HDD and still sit the Xoom up in a cinema position.
The question with doing that though, is will it be recognized as a host-mode connection, and if not how would you get it to act as a host-mode connection without the 'fifth pin'?

[Q] Aftermarket USB 3.0 cables only charge, no data transfer/access in 3.0 mode

I was wondering if anyone is having similar issues with aftermarket cables.
I bought 2 cables that work fine in 2.0 for charging/data transfer.
When I put them into a 3.0 ports nothing happens, there is no prompt to access the phone, and the USB options do not appear on the phone.
I have downloaded the Samsung drivers, and tried 2 different PCs.
I have no issues using the provided Samsung cable.
Any ideas?
I haven't experienced this. Actually, I think the Samsung USB 3.0 cable that came with my phone was bad. When I used it, USB 3.0 would stay grayed out. I had another one for a portable hard drive and that one works fine with the phone. Maybe just try a different brand. These cables seem rather fragile.
LocoBaZuka said:
I was wondering if anyone is having similar issues with aftermarket cables.
I bought 2 cables that work fine in 2.0 for charging/data transfer.
When I put them into a 3.0 ports nothing happens, there is no prompt to access the phone, and the USB options do not appear on the phone.
I have downloaded the Samsung drivers, and tried 2 different PCs.
I have no issues using the provided Samsung cable.
Any ideas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I purchased a 9ft Amazon Basics USB 3.0 cable and all is well. Connecting through a USB 3.0 port, my device was immediately recognized, and I had no problem transferring data files to and from the device.
My only guess would have been to ensure that your PC's USB 3.0 drivers are installed in order for the ports to work properly. Since you're not having any issues with the stock cable, I'm not really sure.
I don't know if it'll make a difference in this case, but I have USB Debugging enabled.
I have all of the drivers update and USB debugging. Think I just got some shoddy cables.
Sent from my SM-N900V using xda app-developers app
I have the same issue. When i use my Samsung cable nothing Happens, But when I use the one from Extenal HD it works Perfect
jncokilla said:
I have the same issue. When i use my Samsung cable nothing Happens, But when I use the one from Extenal HD it works Perfect
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I called Samsung and eventually after explaining what a micro USB 3.0 cable is and how it is supposed to work, and how it is not working, they finally gave me a place to send the cable and they will supposedly send me a replacement. I'm not holding my breath though. I think I would have had better luck addressing the envelope to "The Twilight Zone."
Sent from my SM-N900V using xda app-developers app
If your 3.0 charger charges fine but is not recognized when plugged into a port I'd check the the port drivers and make sure they are up to date. But first plug into all of your ports. It could be that not all of the ports on your lap/desk top are usb 3.0 friendly. And I've seen instances where if the device has not yet been recognized it will not pick up the device theough a usb 3.0 link. So maybe first get your note recognized by using a 2.0 connector then backdoor with the 3.0 and see what happens.
samsung test all of their cords before they leave manufacturing so getting a dud is very unlikely yet not impossible.
As for the aftermarket cords I normally stick to belkin. Best build quality for a fair price.
ManOfBusiness said:
If your 3.0 charger charges fine but is not recognized when plugged into a port I'd check the the port drivers and make sure they are up to date. But first plug into all of your ports. It could be that not all of the ports on your lap/desk top are usb 3.0 friendly. And I've seen instances where if the device has not yet been recognized it will not pick up the device theough a usb 3.0 link. So maybe first get your note recognized by using a 2.0 connector then backdoor with the 3.0 and see what happens.
samsung test all of their cords before they leave manufacturing so getting a dud is very unlikely yet not impossible.
As for the aftermarket cords I normally stick to belkin. Best build quality for a fair price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have tried everything.
I plugged into 2.0 and the 3 options pop up to select a mode where 3.0 is grayed out. That menu closes when you unplug.
If you lock your phone while in this menu, you can change the port, unlock the phone and the menu is still there, but it will not allow me to select 3.0.
I have 2 3.0 ports on my laptop, 1 on the docking station, and 1 on my standalone.
None of them work with the aftermarket cable. I will take it as a loss as I really only need them for charging away from home.
LocoBaZuka said:
I have tried everything.
I plugged into 2.0 and the 3 options pop up to select a mode where 3.0 is grayed out. That menu closes when you unplug.
If you lock your phone while in this menu, you can change the port, unlock the phone and the menu is still there, but it will not allow me to select 3.0.
I have 2 3.0 ports on my laptop, 1 on the docking station, and 1 on my standalone.
None of them work with the aftermarket cable. I will take it as a loss as I really only need them for charging away from home.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is indeed odd. Im not sure what to tell you. Hopefully someone will chime in and be of more assistance.
Try changing your network connections. Using usb3.0 puts on airplane mode. If u have wifi on or something it'll show greyed out. It might not be wifi but it's something similar. Saw the greyed out 3.0 the other day and changed a setting on my phone and it came back. Hope it helps.
Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk
I am having the same issue. I have 2 white usb 3.0 cables that I bought online from china via ebay. They were supposed to be USB 3.0 compatible and they look similar to the original stock cable.
When I use the stock cable w/ my usb3.0 port in rear of motherboard, the phone prompts me to enable USB 3.0 mode. When I use either generic cable, it will only function in USB 2.0 mode (I get no prompt for 3.0).
I am running DarthStalker Note 3 Version 6 and 3.4.0_Compulsion Kernel_7.0 on Tmobile version Note 3
I am willing to sacrifice (cut open) one of my generic cables if anyone thinks they can help diagnose the exact cause
I am having issues finding an extra USB 3.0 cable that performs to the level of the one that came with my phone. (My OEM cable works great)
I think the issue is that the 3rd party cables use cheap, thin wire. They can put a micro USB 3.0 tip on it... but the thin wires can't carry the bandwidth.
This is most plainly noticeable by downloading an app that shows the current flow while charging. Try downloading "Galaxy Charging Current *Lite*" and charge your phone through various combinations of
cable (USB2, USB3, OEM, 3rd party)
receptacle (1A, 2A, OEM, 3rd Party),
USB port (USB2, USB3, motherboard, adaptor card)
...etc. Even wireless charging, if you're equipped.
(It should also be noted that the phone will throttle the current flow as it gets closer to full. You'll get higher flow at 30% than 76% or 96%... so keep this in mind as you try different configurations.)
I've found that I got the best current flow (1800mA) using the Samsung USB3 cable, connected to a powered USB3 hub's charging port (no data, just power). This would charge our 3200 mAH battery from 0 - 100% in about 2 hours. When I swapped in a cheap Amazon cable (CableMatters brand)... the current flow dropped to about 800mA... or 4 hours. I emailed CableMatters, and they confirmed that it's a design issue, and that the wires are thin. They were pretty plain about admitting it... and then told me to return the cables to Amazon.
I'm posting all of this useful information not only to be helpful... but also to ask for help. Has anyone found a suitable replacement for the OEM cable? I'm looking for a charging cable... I'm looking for thicker-gauge wires capable of sustaining high current flow.
Any help here? Thanks!
If you are not getting 3.0 speeds then it's not a 3.0 cable. There are many fakes on ebay and amazon.
Only buy Amazon Basics or Samsung branded cables sold by Amazon OR Samsung.
Sent from my SM-N900V using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Tablet micro USB issue possibly

Hello recently I notice that when I plug the tablet in to my computer or through otg USB for data transfer it doesn't connect. However when I plug it in to for power to charge not charge s no problem. I fix it before thougt it was the electrical tape input over the speakers for good contact since I was having connection issue there. Any help would be great.
ave you tried using another micro usb cable? I have troubles to connect my N7 to pc with original cable but it works for charging fine aswell. I just use my phone cable to transfer files.
I have two other cables and they all do the same as well. Even when use otg with a USB it doesn't light up or shows up as working. Can anyone help me to were it may it the issue inside the tablet. Maybe a loose ground or somewhere. Just need the area where it may be the issue. Also maybe a website or eBay user you have used to replace the charging port with 3.5 mm audio jack since . preferably on eBay. Hope someone can help me out there.
There aren't many things that can go wrong. In the 2012 N7 (and many other devices) there are basically three possibilities:
- the USB cables (if you got multiple cheap cables, you may have multiple bad cables - I got two Monoprice cables a few years ago and they lost their snug fit within a year, they still work but I need to let the cord hang off the side of a table if I do not want the data or power connection to break. The original cable still works perfectly in any orientation)
- the USB port on the device (could be from wear or pulling/angling/torquing whatever is plugged in the USB port. You could theoretically buy an identical USB connector and replace the connector only, which is what people do with the 2013 N7 since the USB/power board assembly can cost over $100 to replace)
- the USB/audio ribbon cable being loose or broken, most likely at the motherboard connector for the 2012 model. If you want to replace that, the 2012's flex cable is relatively cheap at around $15
USB Port
I have replaced the USB port on my 2012 three times so far. They just seem to wear out, and this is without excessive use or abuse. I maybe should start buying them in bulk. They are only $* on Amazon.

USB connector - OTG and pc mass storage not working.

I've had my S8 for about 8 months now, pretty happy with the phone. Let me preface this and say I was with Verizon when I got this phone, a few months ago I decided to cut ties and go with Straight Talk as the service was less expensive. Over the last few weeks I have had trouble with the USB mass storage and OTG adapter not working at all, I am using the OEM pieces that came the phone. I go to plug in the cable or the OTG and my phone starts doing the USB connect/disconnect notification. At this point I am thinking of calling Samsung to see if I can get the port repaired under warranty, I think its weird that the OTG and cable are not working to transfer files or connect devices other than the charger. I have reset the settings on the phone, installed Samsung's mobile device driver on my pc (WIN 7 Ultimate x64) , no luck. Anybody run into this issue?
try another pc or get charging port repaired if it ain't charging properly
khawarjaved said:
try another pc or get charging port repaired if it ain't charging properly
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Click to collapse
Called Samsung, they are having me take it to a UBreakiFix place for their technicians to look at it. They think it could be corrupt software or damaged charging port. It's still under warranty so hopefully they can fix it without having to refurb the phone.
Got it fixed, replaced the port. Phone had a small corner crack in the screen they said Samsung wouldn't warranty the port. Gonna call them about that.

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