My usb ports do not work. Memory stick works on other computers but not my desktop. Help!

Do any other devices work on any of your USB ports on the desktops? Does the memory stick work with a port that works for another device?

If all of the ports fail, check the Device Manager (for Windows OS) - you may have a driver issue. This is reached through the Control Panel (under Hardware or System). The exact titles will depend on the version of the OS.

When you scroll through the list to the USB controllers, look for a triangle with a red x or a yellow triangle. The right click (or double-left click) and try to update your driver or roll back the driver to an older version that worked.

If only a few ports fail, then are you dealing with the front ports or the rear ports? If the front ports (case), then you might want to check if the header cable is fully connected to both the case and the motherboard. This requires opening the case with the appropriate care.

Unfortunately, some new USB devices pull too much power through the port and can burn them out. (Those that charge on the computer are the most likely culprit.) If you have a few working ports, get a USB hub that is self-powered. (Get a good one or only use the AC adapter when there are more than 4 devices connected to the hub.)

I hope this helps.

Cindy Wells