Aaron wrote:
>  Front USB ports are the ones that show the problem - rear ones seem to 
> be OK, but I rarely try to use them.
> 
> 
> Demonstrating it shouldn't be a problem.  Happens 90% of the time.  Got 
> any good Dilbert/IT posters I can hang up in preparation for their 
> visit?  :)
> 
> 
>>-Adam
>> 
>>
> 
> Forgot to mention the only USB device I ever plug in is a memory stick.  
> Most of my real work gets done on the laptop...no IT department insanity 
> on that one. :)  If I power down the computer and plug in the memory 
> stick and start it up, it works fine.  No amount of wiggling can trigger 
> a reset.  Even unplugging the memory stick is fine.  Just the fact of 
> plugging it in and tapping the outside rim of the USB port (in 
> preparation for insertion) causes the reboot.

The fact that tapping the outside of the USB port causes your reboot
suggests that you are getting a static zap.

The reason the rear ports don't cause the problem is that you have
likely touched the case, grounding yourself, in your efforts to get
to the rear ports. As well, the long leads to the front panel are
inductive, IOW highly resistive, to the very short pulse that is a static
discharge.

I would suggest you try touching your hand to the metal parts of the
case before you attempt to plug in the USB device. This will remove
what little static charge you may be carrying, and will also prove this
postulate.

If it turns out to be static, you might try running a heavy (#22) wire lead
from the USB shells to case ground, right AT the front panel.

Robert



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