USB Key MP3 Player shuts down computer

dadsarmy

When inserting a recently purchased new USB MP3 player into any USB sockets for the first time in my vista laptop, the computer shuts down (as if a power cut). I then have to turn the computer back on again after removing the player.

The laptop works with other USB devices - an older HP MP3 player, 2 storage keys, 2 cameras and printer so it is not a loose connection in the ports.

The new MP3 player does accept the AAA battery and turn on etc. but keeps shutting the computer down as soon as it is plugged in.

I have not tried the player in another computer yet.

Any one else had the same problem or know of a solution?

fwor

It sounds more like a hardware fault than a software problem to me.

For example, if it's taking excessive current from the USB port (most laptops won't permit more than 500mA), the controller may be causing a shutdown to prevent damage to the laptop.

Dave_C_2

Make and Model of player?

+1 for a hardware fault, I would return it to the shop as faulty and get my money back.

Dave

dadsarmy

Thank you for the suggestions.

Its an unbranded MP3 player purchased online - the seller has promised to exchange if returned and found faulty.

I thought I would check on MSE in case there was a problem with a driver or something in the computer.

esuhl

I agree -- it sounds like a hardware fault of some kind. Either with the USB port(s) on your PC or with the MP3 player...

andy2004

One like this ?
Probably a hardware fault with the mp3 player was it a seller via ebay ?

dadsarmy

Yes it looks the same as the one in your picture.

andy2004

i had one just like that in the picture but i've never had trouble with it when i connecting to a pc, never tried a laptop, yes i've connected it when it had a battery in it, and it made no difference.
I'd try a different computer before sending it back though, it maybe the connection on the laptop, but as you have said you dont get any problems with any of the other usb devices. so its most likely the mp3 player.
If i may ask was it a seller via Ebay? and which one so i know not to order from them.

dadsarmy

Good news - the MP3 works well on our old XP laptop and did not shut down the computer.

It has now been loaded with close to 500 Sherlock Holmes audio episodes.

The Ebay seller could not have been more helpful - answering my first email within minutes - and even offering to refund return postage costs. I am more than happy with the player so will be keeping it.

Thank you all for the advice.

andy2004

ok, working on a XP laptop, but closing shutting down the computer on a vista laptop. could be a problem with the vista PNP > plug and play. maybe using the wrong driver for the device ?

dadsarmy

Thanks - I have now checked all the USB device drivers to see if updates were needed but all currently up to date.