An “Unknown USB Device, the Device Failed Enumeration” error occurs when Windows cannot recognize a connected USB device. This issue arises due to several potential causes.
Causes of USB Enumeration Failure
- Corrupted or outdated drivers: Incompatible or damaged drivers can prevent Windows from communicating with the USB device.
- Hardware issues: Physical damage to the USB device, cable, or port can cause enumeration failures.
- USB hub issues: Using an external USB hub can introduce additional points of failure and interfere with communication.
- Selective Suspend mode: Windows may enter a power-saving mode that suspends USB devices, causing them to become unresponsive.
- Outdated motherboard drivers: Chipset drivers on the motherboard may need to be updated to support the USB device.
Troubleshooting Steps
1. Quick Fixes
- Restart the computer.
- Try different USB ports.
- Connect the device to another computer.
- Replace the USB cable.
- Bypass external USB hubs.
2. Run Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
- Open Command Prompt and run “msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Update Device Driver
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand “Universal Serial Bus Controllers.”
- Right-click on the affected device and select “Update driver.”
- Choose “Search automatically for drivers.”
4. Uninstall and Reinstall USB Root Hub (USB 3.0) Driver
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand “Universal Serial Bus Controllers.”
- Right-click on “USB Root Hub (USB 3.0)” and select “Uninstall device.”
- Restart the computer.
- Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.
5. Uninstall and Reinstall USB Controllers
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand “Universal Serial Bus Controllers.”
- Uninstall all listed USB Controllers.
- Restart the computer.
- Windows will automatically reinstall the drivers.
6. Install Latest Chipset Drivers
- Visit the motherboard manufacturer’s website.
- Download and install the latest chipset drivers.
7. Disable Selective Suspend Mode
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand “Universal Serial Bus Controllers.”
- Right-click on the affected device and select “Properties.”
- Go to the “Power Management” tab.
- Uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”
8. Identify Unknown USB Device
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand “Universal Serial Bus Controllers.”
- Right-click on the unknown device and select “Properties.”
- Go to the “Details” tab.
- Select “Hardware Ids” from the drop-down menu.
- The vendor ID and device ID will be displayed.
- Use this information to download compatible drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
9. Additional Troubleshooting Tips
- Check for Windows updates.
- Scan for malware.
- Reset BIOS settings to default.
- Contact the device manufacturer for support.
FAQ
What are the common causes of USB enumeration failures?
USB enumeration failures can be caused by corrupted or outdated drivers, hardware issues, USB hub problems, Selective Suspend mode, or outdated motherboard drivers.
How can I update the driver for an affected USB device?
Open Device Manager, expand “Universal Serial Bus Controllers,” right-click on the affected device, and select “Update driver.” Choose “Search automatically for drivers.”
What is Selective Suspend mode and how do I disable it?
Selective Suspend mode is a power-saving feature that can cause USB devices to become unresponsive. To disable it, open Device Manager, expand “Universal Serial Bus Controllers,” right-click on the affected device, select “Properties,” go to the “Power Management” tab, and uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”
How can I identify an unknown USB device?
Open Device Manager, expand “Universal Serial Bus Controllers,” right-click on the unknown device, select “Properties,” go to the “Details” tab, select “Hardware Ids” from the drop-down menu, and the vendor ID and device ID will be displayed.
What should I do if I have tried all the troubleshooting steps but the USB device is still not recognized?
Contact the device manufacturer for support. There may be a specific issue with the device or its compatibility with your system.