T40 does not recognizes (intermittently) external DVD Writer

[ggrr]

Hi, hope you can help!

My T40 (Windows XP Pro, 2002 SP2) does not recognize the external DVD Writer (model HP DVD740e, USB2).

But if I power off the DVD Writer drive (by pulling its AC power cord) then re-power on the drive, then SOMETIMES the T40 recognizes the DVD Writer and it can work normally. Now if I turn off the PC, then turn it on, then problem goes back!

I go to HP website to see if this DVD writer need any specific driver (I got this drive without any sofware, CD...). The only things HP has is a firmware (which I already dowload and install to the drive) and something for LightScribe (which I don;t need for now). Problem still remains.

Plug then un-plug the USB cord doesn't help.

Any idea?

Thanks much!

[sjthinkpader]

USB2 is fairly strict current limits. You may want to try to put it thru a powered hub.