USB devices not available; unable to enumerate device error

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Environment

SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 11
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11

Situation

USB devices are not detected or avaible for use when plugged into the USB ports.

dmesg command output and messages in /var/log/messages shows output similar to:

usb 1-6: new high speed USB device using ehci_hcd and address 4
usb 1-6: device not accepting address 4, error -71
hub 1-0:1.0: unable to enumerate USB device on port 6

Resolution

With the 2.6.27 kernel, a USB bug was introduced with the power-saving modules. Traditionally, the USB hub or controller would wake up when a new device was plugged in. However, with the 2.6.27 kernel, the USB does not wake up. Currently there is no upstream patch.

hot fix
Before implementing the permanent fix, it is suggested that you test it first. Unplug your USB device, and then run,
echo -1> /sys/module/usbcore/parameters/autosuspend
Plug your USB device in. If it is detected then continue on to the permenant fix.

permanent fix
The autosuspend setting can be set at the loading of the USB module. The control of device parameters can be found in /etc/modprobe.conf, /etc/modprobe.conf.local and /etc/modprobe.d.

Create a file in /etc/modprobe.d called usbcore
Populate the file with the following
options usbcore autosuspend=-1
Save the file
Run "mkinitrd" (If you are sure that no USB device modules are loaded via the initrd, then you can skip this step)
Reboot

Additional Information

This issue has been found to affect USB based printers, storage devices, keyboards and mice.

Disclaimer

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