Changing the USB power settings in Windows 10 can help improve device performance and battery life. By adjusting these settings, you can ensure your USB devices operate efficiently without draining your system’s power unnecessarily. Here’s a quick guide to get you started:
How to Change USB Power Settings in Windows 10
In this section, you’ll learn how to change the USB power settings in Windows 10 step-by-step. This will make sure your USB devices use power effectively, reducing unnecessary power consumption.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
First, right-click on the Start button and select "Device Manager."
The Device Manager is the place where you can see all the hardware connected to your computer. It’s like a control panel for your devices. By opening it, you can manage the power settings for your USB devices.
Step 2: Find the USB Controllers
In the Device Manager, scroll down and expand the "Universal Serial Bus controllers" section.
This section lists all the USB-related devices connected to your computer. By expanding it, you can see each USB controller and port that is connected and make adjustments as needed.
Step 3: Access Properties
Right-click on each USB Root Hub and select "Properties."
In the Properties dialog box, you can see various tabs that allow you to change settings for the selected device. This is where you will make the necessary adjustments.
Step 4: Go to Power Management
Click on the "Power Management" tab in the Properties window.
This tab allows you to manage how the device uses power. You can choose options that help save power or keep the device always on depending on your needs.
Step 5: Adjust the Settings
Uncheck "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power" and click OK.
By unchecking this option, you ensure that your USB devices are always on, which can improve their performance, especially for devices like external hard drives or USB hubs.
What Happens Next
After you complete these steps, your USB devices will remain powered on and be ready for use anytime you need them. This could improve the reliability of devices such as USB keyboards, mice, and printers, especially after your computer wakes up from sleep mode. However, keep in mind that this might slightly increase your power usage, which is a trade-off for improved performance.
Tips for Changing USB Power Settings in Windows 10
- Check Device Compatibility: Make sure that the devices you are adjusting settings for are compatible with constant power usage.
- Update Drivers: Always keep your USB drivers updated to ensure optimal performance.
- Use USB Hubs Sparingly: If you use multiple USB devices, consider using a powered USB hub to distribute power evenly.
- Monitor Power Usage: Keep an eye on your computer’s power usage after making changes to see if it affects battery life.
- Revert if Necessary: If you notice any negative impact, you can always revert the changes by following the same steps and rechecking the option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can changing USB power settings affect battery life?
Yes, keeping USB devices always on may slightly increase power consumption, which could affect battery life.
Should I change the settings for all USB devices?
It’s best to change settings only for devices that need constant power, like external drives or printers.
What if I encounter issues after changing the settings?
You can easily revert to the previous settings by going back to the Power Management tab and checking the box again.
Do I need to restart my computer for changes to take effect?
In most cases, changes take effect immediately, but restarting the computer can ensure the settings are properly applied.
Can this improve the performance of my USB devices?
Yes, keeping USB devices powered on can improve their reliability and performance, especially after sleep mode.
Summary
- Step 1: Open Device Manager.
- Step 2: Find the USB Controllers.
- Step 3: Access Properties.
- Step 4: Go to Power Management.
- Step 5: Adjust the Settings.
Conclusion
Changing the USB power settings in Windows 10 can significantly enhance your device’s performance and reliability. While it might seem like a small tweak, ensuring your USB devices are always powered on can prevent unexpected disconnections and improve overall efficiency.
It’s essential to balance power usage and performance based on your specific needs. If you’re using a laptop and want to conserve battery, you might want to enable power-saving options. On the other hand, for desktop users or those needing constant power for specific devices, adjusting these settings can be a game-changer.
Always remember to monitor the impact of these changes. If you notice any negative effects, don’t hesitate to revert to the previous settings. You now have the knowledge to make informed decisions about your USB power settings, helping you get the most out of your Windows 10 experience.
For further reading, check out Microsoft’s official documentation on power management and device settings. And if you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out in the comments below. Happy tweaking!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.