How to Fix a Broken USB to Serial Adapter

Putting a USB to serial adapter  to frequent use can sometimes cause it to give way altogether. The system is such that you will not be able to get your machine to recognize the device or you may have problems fitting it into the connection. A lot of the time, this will demand either a new USB or a new adapter, but there are certain things that you can do without having to call in the PC experts. If the USB is desperately needed, then you should be able to get it working yourself using a few tips and tricks.

Step 1 – Clean the Adapter

The first step is to clean off the adapter and make sure that there is no dirt inside the pin. This is one of the most common causes of adapter failure, as the pin won't work if it cannot be plugged in to the right socket. Rub around the edge of the pin, and the corresponding hole, with a dry cloth, and scrub down with a new toothbrush in order to make sure that there are no small particles of dirt at the back of the adapter points.

Step 2 – Fix the Teeth

Once you have cleaned the adapter, you can look at other causes for your problem. One such cause is damage to the teeth. Trying to fit the adapter in the wrong hole, being trodden upon, and being pushed and pulled in and out of the connector too quickly can damage the teeth around the pin. If you want to avoid this, you should treat your computer devices with care, and be gentle with the sockets. To fix teeth on you adapter, take a small pair of pliers, and gently manipulate the tooth to that it straightens out. You should take care not to force the tooth, as this can break it off completely.

Step 3 – Replace the Adapter

If neither of these steps have helped the adapter to function again, then you may need to simply replace it. Sometimes adapters cables can develop loose wires, or the problem may be an electrical fault in the equipment itself. A new adapter should cost you around $90, so you can also unscrew the side of the adapter, and check that there are no loose wires or rusted connections before you replace it.

Step 4 – Finishing

Before you finish the project you will have to test the adapter to make sure that it is working once again. Choose a USB that you know is working, and plug it into the adapter. You should look at your computer screen to check for signs of life. If the USB does not trigger a response from the PC, then you may need to look at other parts of the computer for the cause of the problem.