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External Generic Usb Hub Increases Cpu Usage

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Post #1
my pc only has 2 usb ports, and to connect more usb devices i bought an external usb hub. the problem is that it increases CPU usage even when my pc is idle..can somebody help me or give me some tips on how to avoid or lessen the additional CPU usage caused by the hub?
Post #2
Without additional information about your specific machine, and your specific USB Hub brand/model, any assistance will have to be quite "general". First this has been a known problem for over 8 years. There have been huge uproars from the gaming and multiple monitor user groups. Most folks blame Microsoft for not anticipating configuration requirements that would come into existence with additional USB 2.0 ports, hubs and devices. Microsoft has published a "fix" as an update and knowledge base article: KB899179 Many folks are not satisfied with that fix. New conflicts and problems are bound to emerge with new innovations in hardware. Should there be a software solution? Maybe. Is there a software solution? I don't know of one that covers all contingencies. Part of the problem, is that when the system recognizes a USB Hub, a power supply load (reportedly 2 amps) is reserved to be available to each USB device, whether or not connected. The above causes laptops running on batteries to consume their battery supply faster than usual. The above causes any computer to experience possible decreased performance due to CPU load. _________ What should you do? Make sure your Operating System is and remains up-to-date with the critical updates and patches supplied by MS. Anything else? Well there seem to be some relatively advanced Registry hacks that can turn-off the Hub or turn-off the allocated power. But it might be simpler to just unplug the Hub when you are not using it. I don't think there is a simple fix available for your situation. I hope that another advanced Member maybe knows of such a fix. There's a ton of stuff written about the problem that you allude to. And you may benefit from reading. We "might' be able to provide some specific suggestions, if you provide specifics about your machine, hub, peripherals and usage. Best Regards

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