Bizzare problem (usb hard drive shutting off pc)

ShortRef · 28 Sep 2011 at 22:15

So my mum bought this system http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=FS-265-OK that arrived today. Everything is okay apart from this strange problem:

We have a 2tb seagate external USB hard drive. I plugged in the power supply to the mains and then plugged the hard drive into the front USB hub. The computer shut off immediately (not restart, just turned off).. The usb was not plugged in fully, only the metal parts touched. I tested it again as I did not believe it and it happened again. It's fine when I plug it into the USB first, then plug it in the power supply. USB sticks are fine, USB dvd rewriter is fine.

Is this a problem with the USB hub, the way the USB hub is connected or is it a problem with the hard drive (should I not plug in the power supply first?

Thanks.

olivier renault · 29 Sep 2011 at 00:22

Yeah could be the USB hub. Try another (cheap) PC, but be careful if it's a short on the USB. The computer (well, PSU) usually shuts down like that if it detects a short or surge to prevent damage. Maybe the PC is over-sensitive or there is really a problem (surge from the power supply).

Buchanan0204 · 29 Sep 2011 at 00:35

Very common issue.

I would RMA the computer. It's not your hard drive!

ShortRef · 29 Sep 2011 at 00:39

It's a common issue? I didn't see anything about it on the reviews. That sucks.

Buchanan0204 · 29 Sep 2011 at 01:01

ShortRef said:
It's a common issue? I didn't see anything about it on the reviews. That sucks.

I don't mean with that specific product. I mean in general with all PC's. Plugging in devices to front panel USB drives causes instant cut out. Google it... hugely common.