Issues with USB Power and Device Connectivity on MacBook M1 (2020)

Loumos wrote:

Hey everyone!

I am experiencing ongoing issues with my MacBook M1 (2020) regarding USB power supply and device connectivity.

1. USB Device Connectivity:

• When connecting devices like DJ controllers, the devices power on (lights turn on) but fail to establish a connection with the MacBook.

• Previously, everything worked without issues, but now, even when connecting a brand-new controller with new cables directly from the box, the same problem occurs: power, but no connection.

2. Charging Issues:

• The MacBook charges much slower than before, even with the original charger and cable, which work perfectly fine with other devices.

• When the Mac batteries die, it takes about 10 minutes with the Charger Plugged in until i can wake up the macbook. Before it was possible to use the macbook plugged in immediately. Also when the batteries die, only the lower USB-C cable works. After the mac is turned on, both work.

Steps Already Taken:

• I’ve verified that all cables and the power adapter are functioning correctly.

• I’ve completely reset the MacBook, performed a clean reinstall, and ensured the latest updates are installed. However, the problem persists.

• When connecting other devices, such as an SD card through a USB-C hub, data exchange works fine.

Im assuming the USB Ports need to be changed. But before spending my money, maybe someone knows of a different solution?

Thank you for your assistance.

unplug all non-essential peripherals to test

compare your results your third party—

try different port

try different cable — About the Apple Thunderbolt Pro Cables - Apple Support

try different third party hub/dock/controller

You do not want to run lithium battery until it dies(?)

The rule of thumb—if you are near the mains leave it plugged in, if you need the portability then run on the battery only—this is how you help optimize your battery charging and extend the working life of your battery by reducing the cycle count.

external card reader has been known to side step issues— depending how those cards are formatted.

if you think you have a hardware issue—

In or out of warranty you can get a free over the counter 'Apple Service Diagnostics' test /assessment

Make an appointment for a "hardware issue"

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Outside the USA

Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support

To be proactive you can file a bug report / submit your Apple Feedback here: Product Feedback - Apple

further—

Call Customer Support (800) MY–APPLE (800–692–7753)

or on line https://getsupport.apple.com/

or call AppleCare Support at 1-800-APLCARE (800-275-2273)

Outside the USA—Contact Apple for support and service by phone

See a list of Apple phone numbers around the world.

Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support

Does the DJ controller have its own independent power supply? If it is a high-draw device lacking a PS, it may be wanting more power than even a fully-functional computer USB port can provide.

Have you tried a powered USB hub? They have their own power "bricks" and often enable connection of high-demand devices without issue.

...When connecting other devices, such as an SD card through a USB-C hub, data exchange works fine.

That suggests the ports are OK but the controller is being greedy.

It could be third-party software at play. If you want a data-driven evaluation in this setting where we can neither see nor touch your computer, please post an EtreCheck report. We can quickly and within the limitations of these forums help you determine what issues are at play without our playing a protracted game of "20 Questions" with you that could go on for days. 

EtreCheck Pro is available here:

https://etrecheck.com/index

The free version will do nicely for this purpose, although the app is worthy of our financial support.

We can see hard data about energy use, drive performance, software issues and interferences, and RAM usage. Etrecheck is the development of a long-serving and trusted ASC contributor. It is a reporting app, not a "fix-it” app, expressly for displaying information in these forums to help us help you remotely. It will not reveal any personal or secure information.

Please see this excellent user tip on how to post long text reports like EtreCheck's into a forum response:

How to use the Add Text Feature When Post… - Apple Community