I broke my PC's USB port by using multimeter for testing my PCB

[bjdhjy888]

 
jee...I cant believe it...The ports aint working anymore.
I guess I shortcircuited it when I test my PCB's jump wires with my multimeter, cuz I did hear my windows 10 made some noise when I did the test... Now it doesn't recognize any plugged in devices.
 
Is it possible to repair the ports?

[sokoloff]

I thought I blew one on my Macbook testing last year's Halloween costume circuits.

After a reboot, they came back, so if you've jumped to the conclusion that it's hardware before trying a reboot, try one.

[magic]

What exactly has been shorted to what?

[nali]

Good computers should have current limiting ICs near each USB port, or at least a PTC fuse. Cheapest computers have single use fuses. So all you need to do is to replace the fuses. Usually a 0805 sized surface mount chip with white or green or brown color, very close to the port.

But not always... Through an unfortunate set of circumstances (and admittedly not enough diligence on my part) I managed to bridge a +12v supply to my Dell laptop's USB V+. Result = magic smoke and a brand new bookend/paperweight. 

I'm guessing the equipment's supply's current limit was less than the laptop's fuse. I don't know as I was kinda preoccupied at the time. 

[magic]

Applying 12V is not something you are supposed to do. By the time the PTC trips, overvoltage is already done to components hanging on the 5V rail in the computer.

But USB is supposed to withstand short circuits indefinitely between any of the GND,5V,D+,D- pins. At least that was guaranteed up to gen 2.0; I think they've relaxed the requirements somewhat for the new high-speed lanes.

[bjdhjy888]

 
my USB ports are BACK! Thanks to fuses inside.
 

[notsob]

might be an idea to use a USB hub next time - killing that would be better than damaging your laptop