USB Flash Drive Circuit Failures

USB flash drives gain their popularity by their portable size and relatively large storage capacity. It is very convenient to store and transfer data with a USB flash drive but they do sometimes fail.

Even without any error, a USB stick may eventually go bad due to the limited lifespan of the internal memory chip. However finite the numbers may be, it probably will never be reached on any device with normal use. USB drive failures are more often caused by various errors. It could be software failures like corrupted lookup table, or it could be circuit failure, which we will elaborate in this article.

1. Weak USB head solder joint

After repeatedly plugging and unplugging, the solder joint connecting the USB head and the circuit may become weak and come off. This may result in the computer not being able to recognize USB device when it is plugged. In this case, we need to open up the case and re-soldering the connector. Some USB drive cases can't be put back together nicely after being opened up. It is a choice you have to make.

2. Damaged Crystal Oscillator

Unusual voltage fluctuation caused by bad surface mount can often lead to damaged crystal oscillator. When crystal oscillator is damaged, the USB drive would appear dead - the computer can't detect the device when plugged in nor will the LEDs flicker. By replacing crystal oscillator, we can bring the USB back to life.

3. USB mass storage controller damage

The computer can detect a new device has been connected to it but unable to recognize what it is. This is very likely a controller failure. Replace the controller with spare parts from the same brand and type USB drive will solve the problem.

4. NAND Memory Failure

NAND flash memory chip is where the data are stored. Chances are the USB drive will be obsolete or long retired before the memory chip is used enough to reach the read/write limit. If anything tragic other than merely weak soldering does happen to the NAND memory chips and you are concerned about the safety of data stored inside, bring it to data recovery experts for inspection and repair. The NAND memory chip must be removed and read with an external reader, then the lookup table will be reconstructed to recover your data. It will require the right tools and trained experts to perform such task.

Engineers in Hdata Recovery are skilled and experienced professionals dedicated to data recovery. If you have any question using Hdata Recovery Software, don't hesitate to contact our 24/7 supports and get help.