strange USB connection problem

[FreeSolaris10]

I have a T43 with finger print reader.
Here is the description of my problem.

Using a Microsoft USB wireless intellimouse connected to my usb port
1) everything works fine as long as I keep work on my computer continuously.
2) the usb port seems to die IF the screen saver kicks in, or I hybernate. the mouse is unusable until I reboot

Using a dsl usb modem,
1) same as above, everything seems to work fine as long as I work on the laptop continuously
2) as soon as I pause working on my laptop, and screen saver or hybernation kicks in, the connection to modem dies and is irrecoverable until I reboot.

*both usb ports have the same problem
*When I try rescanning the hardwares through my comp -> properties -> hardeware -> device manager, the laptop hangs

Thanks in advance

[smugiri]

If you have Windows XP SP1, the problem MIGHT be that the OS is turning off power to the device to conserve battery.

The solution if this is the problem is in two steps
1. Make sure that you have the PC set to "Max performance" profile when connected to AC.
2. Turn off USB power management.
Control Panel->System->Device Manager
Scroll down and carry out the following steps for ALL usb hubs in the Universal Serial Bus controller item in the tree
Right Click->Properties, pick the Power Management tab then remove the check that says "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power"

Since you use a USB DSL modem, this solution might fix both your problems simultaneously.

[FreeSolaris10]

Thanks Steve!...
I think this will definitely work...

[FreeSolaris10]

hmm...my usb connection still dies even after turning off the automatic power saving feature......
would this be a general problem with usb? or thinkpads problem?