Is it possible to tighten up loose USB ports on front panel or laptop

[tankman1989]

IDK how many of you experience problems with USB connections on machines as they get older. It seems like a constant for me unfortunately and it depends upon which ports I use the most. What I'm talking about is the sleeved connection of the interface which loosens up after many connections (and some harsh bumps at times...). I've found this can lead to some serious problems with the OS b/c it can read constant connect/discounts multiple times a minute until it stops communication with it.

I've found that if i use one side of a pair of tweezers, the end, I can bend the little metal flaps on the outside in towards the middle a LITTLE. I would say don't do more tham 1/4-1/3mm on each or else you won't be able to plug the device in. This helps a great deal but it doesn't last real long.

Anyone ever deal with this or have any ideas on ways to fix this?

 

[kpk1]

I've seen people try to force USB plugs in the wrong way so many times... Not just USB connectors either, no wonder the conections let go.

I've also 'fiddled' with the sleeves to no avail unfortunately.

If anyone has a solution I'm equally interested.

 

[wavey]

New USB connectors are really cheap http://cpc.farnell.com/jsp/search/browse.jsp?N=411+207497+705&isRedirect=true and usually not too difficult to swap out.

Of course being gentle with your PCs is always a good thing

 

[Moltuae]

It's generally not the outer metal screening can of the connector that's the problem; the connection failure is almost always at the pins. Having a tighter fitting connector can help alleviate a bad pin connection, just as holding the connector steady and tightly might, but it's best to replace/resolder the connector for a permanent fix.

Most desktop PC USB connectors are standardised, cheap and readily available. Laptop USB connectors can sometimes be more difficult to replace and source.

 

[Larry Sabo]

When/if you replace the USB socket, be sure the match the original with respect to whether the plug in on top/bottom., otherwise the pin-outs are reversed.