external key, mouse and monitor on laptop... mouse "times out"

[iSign]

I've been meaning to ask about this for a few months... my HP laptop (running Vista

)
is connected to an external monitor mouse and keyboard. The mouse and keyboard are on a cheap USB hub (along with a printer & an external hard drive)

The problem is half the time when I walk away from the computer for 20 minutes or so... when I come back the external mouse is not working. Sometimes I can unplug the hub, plug it back in & away I go... but other times I have to restart the laptop, which drives me up the wall... I am always multi-tasking & trying to be efficient with my time, even if I'm surfing signs101... so sitting here waiting for a restart almost once a day.... I swear it's taking a toll in years off the back end of my life, due to accumulated stress.

I know... I oughta' JUST go take a walk ... BUT I JUST WANT MY DAMN ADDICTION TO BE EASIER TO SATISFY!! :Big Laugh

 

[mediaman]

I record music on my PC and I tried using a USB expansion hub, which resulted in clicks in the recording. My IT guy told me that hubs don't provide full power to each USB port on the array. I ditched the hub and don't have any more problems. Also, front USB ports can sometimes be underpowered for devices that use the port for power.

 

[Si Allen]

Look into a powered hub!

I think mediaman is correct.

 

[iSign]

thanks guys, when I was trying to give all the info that might help in this post...

right when I added the word "cheap" in front of USB hub, I realized that might be the source of the trouble. I have a powered hub at the office, not in use... so I'll bring it home & try it out.