Request for the usb device descriptor failed​

The “Request for the USB device descriptor failed” error occurs when a USB device fails to properly communicate with the operating system, particularly when the system attempts to retrieve the device descriptor. This descriptor is a vital part of the communication protocol between a USB device and a computer, allowing the OS to identify the device and load the necessary drivers. 

1. USB Device Descriptors

Before delving into the troubleshooting process, it’s important to understand the concept of a USB device descriptor. USB devices, such as flash drives, printers, and keyboards, rely on a system of descriptors to establish communication with a host (usually a computer). These descriptors are small data structures that provide information about the device, including its type, manufacturer, product ID, and capabilities.

The “device descriptor” is the first descriptor that the operating system requests when a USB device is plugged in. It contains essential information about the device, allowing the operating system to identify it and select the appropriate driver. If the system is unable to retrieve this descriptor, the error message “Request for the USB device descriptor failed” will appear, and the device may not function properly.

2. Causes of the USB Device Descriptor Error

There are several potential causes for the “Request for the USB device descriptor failed” error. Some common causes include:

a) Hardware Issues

Faulty USB Port: A damaged or malfunctioning USB port can prevent the computer from reading the device descriptor correctly.

Faulty USB Cable: A damaged or broken USB cable can disrupt the data flow between the device and the computer, leading to the descriptor request failure.

Power Supply Issues: Insufficient power from the USB port can also cause this issue, especially for devices that require more power to function.

b) Driver Problems

Corrupted Drivers: If the drivers for the USB device or the USB controller are corrupted or outdated, the system may fail to retrieve the device descriptor.

Missing Drivers: If the necessary drivers for the USB device are not installed or are missing, the device descriptor cannot be obtained.

Incompatible Drivers: Sometimes, third-party drivers or incorrectly installed drivers can cause conflicts that prevent proper communication with the USB device.

c) Software Conflicts

Operating System Issues: Problems with the operating system, such as system updates or corrupt system files, can interfere with USB functionality.

Device Conflicts: If multiple USB devices are connected simultaneously, they may conflict with one another, leading to the failure of descriptor retrieval.

d) BIOS/UEFI Settings

USB Settings in BIOS/UEFI: Incorrect settings in the BIOS/UEFI, such as disabled USB ports or settings that limit power to USB devices, can cause the system to fail when requesting the device descriptor.

e) USB Device Problems

Device Malfunction: The USB device itself may be faulty, damaged, or have a hardware issue preventing it from sending the correct device descriptor.

Device Driver Conflicts: If the USB device is not properly recognized or supported by the operating system, it may not provide the correct descriptor, leading to an error.

3. Troubleshooting Steps

Now that we understand the potential causes, let’s explore the troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the “Request for the USB device descriptor failed” error.

a) Basic Checks

Restart the Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues with the USB subsystem. Restart your computer and try reconnecting the USB device.

Test the Device on Another Computer: To determine whether the issue lies with the device or the computer, try connecting the USB device to a different computer. If it works on another machine, the problem is likely with your computer’s USB ports or configuration.

Try a Different USB Port: Test the USB device on a different port on your computer. Sometimes, individual USB ports can malfunction while others work fine.

Inspect the USB Cable: If you’re using a USB cable, ensure that it is not damaged. Try using a different cable to rule out the possibility of a faulty connection.

b) Update or Reinstall USB Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are one of the most common causes of USB descriptor errors. Follow these steps to update or reinstall your USB drivers:

Update Drivers Using Device Manager:

Press Win + X and select Device Manager.

Expand the Universal Serial Bus controllers section.

Right-click on each USB Root Hub or USB Host Controller and select Update driver.

Choose Search automatically for updated driver software to allow Windows to find and install the latest drivers.

Reinstall USB Drivers:

In Device Manager, right-click on the USB device that is failing and select Uninstall device.

Restart your computer. Windows will automatically attempt to reinstall the drivers for the USB device.

Download and Install Drivers from the Manufacturer:

Visit the manufacturer’s website for the USB device and download the latest drivers. Installing the official drivers can sometimes resolve compatibility issues.

c) Check for Operating System Updates

Sometimes, operating system updates can fix issues related to USB devices and drivers. Make sure that your operating system is fully updated:

Check for Windows Updates:

Press Win + I to open the Settings app.

Navigate to Update & Security and click Check for updates.

Install any pending updates and restart your computer.

d) Test the USB Device in Safe Mode

Booting into Safe Mode can help rule out software conflicts as a cause of the error. In Safe Mode, only essential drivers and services are loaded, which can help identify if third-party software is causing the issue.

Boot into Safe Mode:

Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.

Go to the Boot tab and check Safe boot.

Click OK and restart your computer.

Test the USB Device in Safe Mode:

Once in Safe Mode, reconnect the USB device to see if the error persists.

e) Modify BIOS/UEFI Settings

Sometimes, incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings can cause USB issues. Check the following settings:

Enable USB Ports in BIOS/UEFI:

Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings by pressing the designated key (usually F2. Del, or Esc) during boot.

Ensure that all USB ports are enabled. Look for settings such as USB Configuration, USB Legacy Support, or USB Initialization and ensure they are set to “Enabled.”

Disable Fast Boot:

Some systems with Fast Boot enabled can cause issues with USB initialization. Disable Fast Boot in the BIOS/UEFI settings.

f) Check for USB Power Management Issues

Power issues can also cause USB devices to fail during initialization. To address this:

Disable USB Selective Suspend:

Open Device Manager and expand the Universal Serial Bus controllers section.

Right-click on each USB Root Hub and select Properties.

Go to the Power Management tab and uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.

g) Test for Hardware Failure

If none of the above solutions work, the issue may lie with the USB device itself. Here are some things to try:

Check the Device on Another Computer: If the device is still not recognized on another computer, it’s likely defective and may need to be replaced.

Test with a Different USB Device: If other USB devices are working fine, the problem is likely with the specific device that is failing.