eSATA cable won't fit into port

[jeff_hp]

I have an HP dv7-4065dx laptop, which has an eSATA/USB combo port.  I just got a LaCie d2 quadra external hard drive, which came with an eSATA cable.  The cable fits fine into the port on the hard drive, but I can't get it to fit into the port on the HP.  The shape looks right, but it just won't quite fit.  Seems a little strange and frustrating... is there more than one kind of eSATA cable?  Are ill-fitting eSATA cables/ports common?  I couldn't find much evidence of either, but who knows.  I'm a little annoyed at the prospect of having to purchase another eSATA cable just to test it out.  Anyone had a similar problem?  Thanks.

[Cyclops]

Is the issue of eSATA cable not going in or the fit is loose?

[jeff_hp]

It won't go in.  I've put more than enough force on it for it to go in normally; I've not wanted to jam it in for fear of messing anything up.

[Cyclops]

OK...here is thing to remember... eSATA Pins are on the top of the port.... and It may feel a little hard to put in at 1st....

[jeff_hp]

Well, I don't know what to say... the eSATA cable simply won't go in more than about 1/8".  It's not merely a little fussy—it stops, even with way more force than should be necessary. I just tried a USB cable; that went in fine.  I know I'm putting the eSATA cable in with the right side up.  Some tiny protuberance on that particular cable (design) must be hitting some tiny protuberance on that particular port (design).  I'll have to try another eSATA cable to know for sure; unfortunately that means buying one.  Thanks for your help, though.

[jeff_hp · Accepted solution]

OK, I got it to go in finally after gently bending up the two (brass?) flanges on the top side of the port.  I figured that's what was getting caught after looking closely.

[Cyclops]

Cool, That is Great!