How to Configure a USB Port

New computers are configured with USB ports, but for older models an upgrade may be necessary. Devices such as printers, keyboards, and mice are packaged with a USB connection. After you've installed a USB port, it needs drivers installed to configure it for compatibility with other devices.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• USB manufacturer's device driver installation CD

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and select "Run." Type "devmgmt.msc" into the text box and click the "Ok" button. This starts the Windows Device Manager, which holds a list of installed hardware on the computer.

2. Click the "Universal Serial Bus Controllers" icon. This expands to a list of USB ports. If this icon is not available, check the "Other Devices" category for the USB port. If the operating system is unable to find drivers, the "Other Devices" section is where the new hardware gets categorized.

3. Right-click the port and select "Properties." Click the "General Tab" and then press the "Reinstall Driver" button in the main screen. This opens an "Add New Hardware" wizard screen.

4. Select the "Install the software automatically (Recommended)" option. Ensure the CD-ROM disc is inserted into the drive, so Windows can find the drivers. Click the "Next" button. Windows searches for drivers, finds them on the CD-ROM, and installs them to the hard drive.

5. Click the "Finish" button to close the configuration window. Reboot the computer for changes to take effect. The port is now configured to be used by any USB compatible device.

References

• Microsoft