How to enable USB ports

It is good to check student logins, passwords, and go over the basic operation of the devices you plan on using for engaging in Let's Talk Science activities before the start of a lesson. In cases where access to hardware function is limited it would be a good idea to contact your school's IT dept for access and privileges to the required software and hardware needed. If you are trying to unlock access to the USB ports on student devices during a lesson you may want to try these steps.

1. Click the Start button and type "device manager" or "devmgmt.msc" (without quotes) into the Start Search box. Press "Enter."
2. Click "Universal Serial Bus controllers" to see a list of USB ports on the computer.
3. Right-click each USB port, then click "Enable." If this does not re-enable the USB ports, right-click each again and select "Uninstall."
4. Restart the computer. Windows automatically scans the system and reinstalls the deleted USB controllers.

Please follow the guidelines of your School Division's IT Policies and Procedures. In advance of any expected use from USB ports on district IT equipment please ensure that you have made sure USB ports are 'enabled' on the devices you intend to use. Contact your IT department for administrative access to USB ports or to have them 'enable USB ports' for your students to access during engaging lessons.