How to Fix a Broken Firewire Hub

A FireWire hub is a connection that links from numerous different devices to your computer so that data can be transferred back and forth.  When using a FireWire, you must connect it through the computer's FireWire hub, which is called a USB port. Typically for people who are involved in some sort of video production, they use FireWires and USB port.

Port Differences

As with many electric devices, there are going to be different versions and different companies who make the products. This presents a dilemma when it comes time to fix them. Normally, a problem that plagues one device, plagues multiple and as such there is one simple solution to fixing them. Look at your device to determine what kind you have. There are several different formats available: RCA IO Gear GFH310, Datavideo VP-332, IEEE 1394, Belkin.

Troubleshooting

There are a handful of small little tests that can be completed in order to determine if your hub is indeed broken. First and foremost is making sure that the connector is inserted straight and completely secure in the port. Be sure that you have not accidentally reversed the connector and forced it into the port. Double-check the connector to be certain that there is no dust or dirt, or anything that could be causing interference. Look at the port in the computer itself, make sure that nothing is lodged inside of it.  Be sure to exchange the FireWire cable itself with one that you know has been working with another device, and see if that makes things any better. 

Biggest Problem

Believe it or not, the biggest cause for broken FireWire hubs is also one of the easiest things to avoid and to protect your computer from.  Static discharge can destroy a FireWire port instantly. You may find that one day your port it working fine, and the next you go to plug something into it and there is nothing: it doesn’t read anything.  You will find that any amount of static build up is dangerous for your hub.  Typically FireWires have a built in discharge system, but even this protection has its limits. 

Mild Problems and Solutions

If you sit down at your computer and insert your FireWire, only to have information freeze halfway through the transfer, there is a very easy fix for this. Try to remove the FireWire and insert it into a USB port in the rear of the computer.  A secondary fix to this issue is to ensure that you have your data transfer set to process to your internal drive.

There is always the tried and true attempt at restarting your computer. Begin by shutting down your computer and then disconnecting all devices and cables from it. Remove the main power supply and let the computer sit for about 5 minutes. Plug the computer back into the wall, turn it on, and then begin to reconnect all of the device. This does not always work, but it is a simple test to determine which port is really causing you issues.