This only applies to external hard disks or SSDs it won't work with thumb drives.ġ. If anything, this will allow you to copy its contents to another drive, or upload it to the cloud, in case it fails completely. If all else fails and you possess the technical know-how, you can triage your hardware by removing it from its enclosure and hooking it up to a computer the old-fashioned way. (Image credit: Future) Install your hard drive directly into your computer or a new enclosure Since Windows and Mac computers have compatibility issues with certain types of drive format, you may find that your drive works in a Windows PC if you're running a Mac, and vice-versa. Failing this, try connecting your external hard drive to another computer, if you have one to hand. Alternatively, check whether your USB hub has an external power port (such as an AC power supply or USB port), since some hubs need an extra boost of energy to power certain devices such as external hard drives.ģ. If you're plugging your drive into a USB hub, try connecting it directly to its own USB port on your computer instead. It may help to restart your computer if this doesn't work, since this should 'refresh' your ports if they're acting up.Ģ. Try plugging your external hard drive into a different USB port on your computer, to see if this makes a difference. (Image credit: Toshiba) Try a different USB port or computerįor all their uses, USB ports like to mess with us from time to time, so it helps to troubleshoot the port.ġ.

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