USB Modem - smoke and burning smell

[MikeyIs4Dcats]

I connected a new USB modem to my computer. I ran phone dialer to test out the connection, and there was a puff of smoke and a burning smell. Is there anything I may have done wrong or just a bad modem?

 

[Sheriff]

Most likely a Bad Modem unless you plugged it in the PCI slot . Return it esp if it was new and hope it isn't your USB port (which I doubt)

 

[MikeyIs4Dcats]

it is an external, so can't be wrong port. I'm betting bad modem myself, but just curious.

 

[ParatoOptimal]

1.) It sounds like a bad capasitor.
2.) Otherwise something in the population was mounted in reverse.
3.) It's a long shot that there's a cross in the CAD layout of the sodder due to bad CAD or a fluke in production.

More than likely it's a capasitor that melted and dripped on the PCB.
I've seen it happen dozens of times.

Anywhich way, it's a defective modem. They should swap it out for you and pay for shipping both ways with their appologies.

Power either comes from the USB port or the PS supplied by the modem manufacturer. So, they can't argue with you if it's their PS. If the modem is powered by the USB port, the modem manufacturer can't argue with you if you've plugged other devices in that USB port without any problems.

If you want a USB modem, I'd recommend a USB modem with a separate power supply rather than one that gets it's power from the USB port. I'm not sure if anyone still makes one that draws all necessary power from the USB port. We tried to make one but it wouldn't fly.

 

[Sheriff]

LOL the PCI slot was a joke and it's not a question of a wrong port rather a burnt out USB Port. (which I doubt). You could try another Computer with it's USB Port to verify.

 

[MikeyIs4Dcats]

I think the modem is toast...there was smoke and burning smell, so I can'tr imagine it would work on any USB prt at this point...

 

[beatle]

Yeah, if you ever let out the magic smoke (that's what makes electronics work) the device is toast.