Fixing Mac Pro 2008 USB ports?

[violetpaper]

The USB ports on my 2008 Mac Pro work for using my keyboard, mouse, and Wacom tablet... but none of them will work for devises that require data transfer, like a e-reader, ipod, or usb drive. The computer doesn't even recognize them when they're plugged in.

I'm considering buying a card with additional USB ports, like this:

http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Sonnet Technologies/USB2E/

Do you think that's likely to work?

Is there anything else you would suggest that might fix the problem?

 

[brand]

Is there anything else you would suggest that might fix the problem?

Test the ports outside of the currently installed operating system. By that I mean install Mac OS on a different drive or boot to a Linux live disc and see if the issue persists.

 

[m4v3r1ck]

Is there anything else you would suggest that might fix the problem?

Besides OS issues, you could try using a power-juiced USB hub.

GL & Cheers

 

[NOTNlCE]

+1 to both the above responses. I can safely vouch for the functionality of that Sonnet card - I installed it in a client's system just a few weeks ago. The price is well worth the functionality, in my opinion. I would even install it in mine if it didn't mean sacrificing a PCIe slot, but I suppose that's what hubs are for. Good luck with your testing. I would try the Linux Live method first.
-N

 

[flowrider]

Two Points here:

1. The Card the OP is posting is from OWC - OWCs return policy - 48 hours after shipment delivery. They are not Buyer Friendly.

2. The Card is USB 2.0. USB 3.0 Cards are available for half the price Here:

http://www.amazon.com/Optimized-Por...270&sr=8-1&keywords=inateck+usb+3.0+pcie+card

There is a thread here:

https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/1501482/

All of you really should read it.

Lou

 

[666sheep]

Start from SMC and PRAM resets, if you didn't. It's costless