MultiPoint Server USB Device Issues

Because USB technology plays a key role in the operation of MultiPoint Server, faulty equipment or a configuration that does not meet USB 2.0 or MultiPoint Server standards can cause issues related to connectivity, performance, and other intermittent issues.

The best way to prevent such issues is to make sure that all standards and best practices are observed when configuring the USB network. These standards and practices include the following:

  • Only USB 2.0 devices and hubs are supported for use with MultiPoint Server.

  • All hubs external to the computer should have their own external power source. MultiPoint Server station hubs should be no farther from root hub than at the third level away from the computer.

  • Observe cable length limitations for single connections and for the total length between the root hub and a device.

  • Ensure that all controllers, hubs, and devices have the latest supported drivers.

    Note

    OEMs might support a different version of a driver than is available from the component manufacturer’s Web site.

  • Care must be taken not overload controllers with high-speed devices such as monitors or multifunction station hubs.

  • Consider the power requirements and limitations for hubs, ports, and devices.

If errors occur that might be related to USB devices, consider these general troubleshooting steps:

  • Clearly define the problem behavior, such as:

    • What is the message or behavior that is observed?

    • What is a user doing when the problem occurs?

    • Is the behavior reproducible?

  • Determine the scope of the issue

    • Is the issue isolated to a specific station or set of stations?

    • Is the problem behavior consistent or intermittent, and does it occur more often when there are more users on the system?

  • Collect and analyze the appropriate logs

    • Event logs

    • Performance Monitor logs

  • Get a clear picture of the USB topology in a tree view of all USB controllers, hubs, and devices.