Charging by USB problem

Seijuro · 07-07-2009, 09:24 AM

Hi I recently went to europe and am trying to charge my iphone via USB with the computer that is available where Im staying. At first everything was fine but then a message popped out at the bottom right of the screen saying there was an installation error. Soon after there was a connection issue and the phone wouldnt charge via computer.

When I plug it into the USB it vibrates twice, then the battery charge picture appears, soon after it dissapears. Then it vibrates twice again then the cycle repeats indefinately

My wall charger doesnt work in europe. Please help!

iNinja · 07-07-2009, 03:56 PM

I would imagine that the computer you are using doesnt have the apple drivers properly installed.

Also if you are using the 3.0 software and the latest Itunes installed on the computer then that can also effect it.

rdrast · 07-07-2009, 07:15 PM

The computer you are using probably doesn't have the ability to supply "Charging Power". In general, even under USB 2.0 specifications, the available supply current does not have to be what the spec calls for, it's just a recommendation. Most PC's out in the last year, can provide sufficient power out the USB ports for charging, but older ones do not by default.

Sometimes there is a bios setting, sometimes there is nothing you can do.

On almost any current PC, the driver has no bearing, as you can have the PC supply power to the USB ports even if it is off. Many newer laptop BIOS's even have the option to set how much power will be available to the USB ports when the system is off, and the iPhone charges fine off of mine.

eye-Fone · 07-07-2009, 07:49 PM

If you are using a public computer (at an internet cafe or in a business center of a hotel), that USB port may be disabled for security purposes. Try a private computer. It could also be like rdrast said, there may not be any power behind that USB port. As a worst-case scenario, buy (or borrow) an adapter that allows you to plug your wall charger into that country's wall.

I know for a fact that a computer does not need any Apple drivers, iTunes, or any other iPhone-specific software for it to charge an iPhone.

Seijuro · 07-08-2009, 02:26 AM

Yeah I think its most likely the computer because it charged fine on my friends laptop a few days ago. Thanks guys