Non-powered usb hubs-Do they ruin the main usb port?

After 2 out of 3 usb ports "died" mysteriously on my notebook LG-S1 I was considering to use a non-powered usb expander on the remaining one usb port to meet my needs. I need to connect a wireless usb mouse and keyboard's receptor to this port and some other devices like thumb drives. I was wondering if this usb hub will ruin the main port as it may not be able to power all the devices adequately. Any help would be appreciated.

 

USB ports should be capable of delivering 500mA current. I would not expect the devices you have listed to total up to that. However, the fact that two ports have dies suggest that this notebook may have power power problems.

Have you checked in the BIOS and Device Manager (USB hubs) to see if there is any option to reset power overload on the USB ports?

John

 

It shouldn't damage the main port. As long as the total power requirements of the devices you plug into it do not exceed 500 mA then everything should work. Plugging in too many high power devices would just leave one or more underpowered.

Since you've lost two USB ports, however, you may want to consider having the system looked at if you're still under warranty. That your ports are failing may be a sign of other problems.

 

One of the 2 failed ports at very few occasions suddenly becomes functional just when you thought that it was permanently gone. Could this be a software issue? BTW I plan to plug in the receptor of my wireless kb and mouse and one additional device like my phone or a thumb drive at times into the usb expander for the remaining port. Should this be considered harmful? The device manager does not report any problems and the bios settings indicate that all ports are enabled.