Mac OS X 10.4.7 Special Report: USB problems (device recognition, preventing your Mac from sleeping etc.) -- fixes

CNET staff

Sept. 2, 2009 7:27 a.m. PT

3 min read

Users note various problems with USB devices after updating to Mac OS X 10.4.7, particularly a situation where devices must be unplugged then re-connected in order to be recognized, or devices take an inordinately long time to be recognized.

Certain peripherals (USB, FireWire, PCI, SCSI, etc.) can also prevent proper sleep routines after the update to Mac OS X 10.4.7. Removing the offending device usually solves the issue.

Some users with critical devices that cause problems under Mac OS X 10.4.7 are choosing to revert to Mac OS X 10.4.6 in order to retain functionality.

Although we generally do not recommend this procedure, it appears that reverting to an earlier version of the IOUSBFamily.kext file -- a kernel extension that supports USB connectivity -- can resolve problems with some USB devices under Mac OS X 10.4.7.

We've noted this fix in the past for various device issues, particularly with printers.

Before attempting this procedure, you should note that mixing and matching system components can cause various ostensibly unrelated issues, and you should always have a solid back (preferably a clone) on hand in case anything goes wrong.

The easiest way to install the older version of IOUSBFamily.kext is download the re-installer of the file (PowerPC or Intel) from Apple's logged archive.

The file being replaced is:

/System/Library/Extensions/IOUSBFamily.kext

Restart, and check for continuing issues with USB devices. If you want to re-install the current (Mac OS X 10.4.7) version of the file, use these download links: PowerPC or Intel.

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