USB Cable got too hot to touch

[ScourggeFX]

I recently moved my PC while trying to install a new desk and dropped the desktop DVD RW drive I had connected by USB. Well, I thought something must have broken inside, but decided to try anyway. Connected the usb cable back to the PC, but got errors that too much power was being drawn from the port. Tried another, no message. All's well until I decided to switch ports. The cable becomes almost too hot to touch. So I frantically removed it and the offending, now broken, device and eventually the cable cooled down.

I've searched the web for similar experiences, but have found none. What happened? If I had left it unattended it might have caused a fire. I think something went wrong between the DVD RW (Lite-On) and the USB port.

 

[digital_exhaust]

I would suggest attaching a different usb device to that port and see what happens, if you get the same message I think it would indicate you damaged the port or header when you dropped your drive.

 

[movax]

Max current draw is 500mA, IIRC.

You've probably got a V+/GND short somewhere.

 

[ScourggeFX]

I have other devices connected to the port now, and all is well. Must have been the unit I dropped.

 

[zoobaby]

Max current draw is 500mA, IIRC.

Correct

You've probably got a V+/GND short somewhere.

My guess is D+ to GND. That can draw a bit of current as well.

I have other devices connected to the port now, and all is well. Must have been the unit I dropped.

Sorry to hear that. See if you can get inside broken one and see if just the connector is messed up.