USB repair possible?

I have a question one of my usb on my gateway M-6862 has a broken usb tab inside the usb that allows proper connections leaving me with only 2 usb instead of 3 now. I was wondering is it worth trying to unsolder and repair it or just purchasing a used motherboard that is in good condition and 3 working usb ports? I found the used board for 100- 120 with S&H and but the rest of my components in it work and is still working. Would switching out the motherboard just to have 3 USB be worth it?

 

Your cheapest option would be to use a hub on one of your remainder ports. Trying to find the proper usb jack may be an issue for repair? 2nd cheapest.

Do you have BT to free up your external mouse if used?

 

That would defeat the purpose of having a laptop be a all in one computer. Carrying around too many parts besides the PS is all I want besides the mouse and usb memory stick when needed. I had people on other side reply back to people to use usb port stick but I replied then why have a laptop then just get a desktop at least the desktop will be more a permanent computer but if you want portable and computing where ever and when ever the laptop should only be what it has built into it and beyond a BT mouse and memory stick should all be what is attached to it. I do know you can hook printer to USB or wireless printer as well but that is for another time as lugging around a printer small or big isn't very viable option unless you plan to stay at the location for some time. But I am on the move and having things sticking out isn't a very good use of what a laptop was designed and created for. I can make it with only two usb but later I might decided to buy a replacement motherboard with all 3 USB working to use. It's a used Gateway that I bought for memory before I realized the laptop was repairable and fixed it and now it works. Just looking for if anyone has done such repair and how it went for them.

 

OK, NP.

Yes, I have repaired the USB ports, this was on boards where the jack legs needed to be re-flowed. As long as you have the proper style jack, rip apart laptop and break out your soldering tools. Eazy Peasy!

USB Jack Manufacturers & Suppliers

This is cheaper than a main board, but, ymmv.

 

I just desoldered a USB jack with 2 ports. I have a decent 40w iron but let me just say it was a royal PIA.

How are you supposed to heat up 4 legs and 8 contacts all at once enough to get it off the board? I could get 2 legs up by bending & prying but the rest was impossible. Pretty much had to rip it off and desolder the remaining leads individually.

Oh and @ hydra, say hi to my folks down there in Naawlins for me.

 

You need to use solder wick or a vacuum desoldering pump to remove the solder from each connection, one at a time.

 

Naturally!

@jimbob83

Yepper, technique is where it's at..

I also find it's far easier to clip the legs on mutilated jacks, this let's us use far less heat to pull cut pins then clean the holes for new jack.