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My usb c port has an orange dot.  My external hard drive is not working.  How can I fix it?  I tried another HP computer and the displayed worked.  

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @Mrwashn10,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

The orange dot on your USB-C port usually indicates limited functionality or power delivery mode, and it often means the port is in a charging-only state or has a power negotiation issue. Since your external hard drive works on another HP computer, the problem is likely with the port or its configuration on your current system.

1. Check Port Functionality

  • On many HP devices, an orange or amber light near USB-C can mean: 
    • Charging-only port (does not support data).
    • Low power state due to BIOS or driver settings.
  • Confirm your model’s specs in the manual to ensure the port supports data transfer.


2. Inspect Cable & Drive

  • Use the same cable and drive on another port (USB-A or another USB-C if available).
  • If it works elsewhere, the issue is isolated to that USB-C port.


3. Update Drivers & BIOS

  • Go to your model’s HP driver page: 👉 Official HP® Support
  • Update: 
    • Chipset drivers
    • USB controller drivers
    • BIOS
  • Restart after updates.


4. Check Power Settings

  • Go to Device Manager → Universal Serial Bus Controllers.
  • Right-click each USB Root Hub → Properties → Power Management.
  • Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.


5. Run HP Hardware Diagnostics

  • Restart and press Esc → F2 → Component Tests → USB Test.
  • If the test fails, the port may have a hardware fault.

 

I hope this helps.

 

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

 

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.