I ger error messages when I plug a device into either port on my PC...

Do I have to replace it? If so, is it difficult, and about how much should it cost?.

I have very little experience with this type of thing. Thanks.

First check under Device manager to see what it says about the ports. Did they EVER work?

If you can't get them to work, you can add a USB cosrd to your system if you have a free slot on the motherboard. Cost under $50.

Good idea but I do not think the USB PCI card can be that much expensive!!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by shabby

good idea but i do not think the USB PCI card can be that much expensive!!!!

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There are several types of USB cards that range in the number of ports. Here's one example:

http://catalog.belkin.com/IWCatProdu...duct_Id=148866

The prices can vary and, yes you can find cheaper cards.

The best and cheapest one

http://www.pctradeshop.com/code/ui/m...=7&subcatid=10

Cheapest is not always best. Plus, that is a UK site with UK pricing. At current exchange rates, you would have to double the price to get USD. From what I saw, those are no name generic boards. That doesn't mean they aren't good or workable.

In my answer I cited less than $50 to give the asker a ballpark figure. The asker may prefer to purchase retail and might need someone to install for him. So I gave my estimate with that in mind.

Thanks all, I'll see what I can do with it.

You can try to reinstall your USB Root Hubs before you go out and buying a new PCI USB card.

Go into the Device Manager (windows key + pause/break>> Hardware >> Device Manager) and then uninstall your USB Root hubs. Once all of them are gone restart your PC. When your computer comes back on it will recognize the "new device" and walk you though the install process.

After you reinstall the USB Root Hubs try to connect a USB device and see it if works. If you get at least one to work go out a get yourself a cheap USB Hub.