Thread: Down loading files from my PC via the USB PORT

When I connect my Playbook to my PC via the USB cable, the BB Desktop Software recognises it and performs a back up, but I can't download music files, or even Sync media. I get a message saying that there is no connection, clearly wrong as I've just done a backup. It also tells me that I can't charge the device with this USB connection. I've tried 3 different cables.Any ideas?

I don't believe the Playbook can be charged with a usb to the computer. The computer just doesn't put out enough juice to make it happen.

As far as downloading music, some usb cords are strictly for charging, while others will charge and can be used for data connections. Seeing as how you can create a backup for your Playbook, I'm not sure why you can't also download media with the DM. Check your settings on the DM and make sure that the settings are correct as to it connecting to your media folder.

Also, have you tried to simply drag your media files onto your Playbook? That's what I do. Please post back on what you find out.

I normally add my files to PlayBook via Windows Explorer. It's so much easier

Just checked the charger which puts out 1.8A. USB ports are limited to 500mA, so that explains that. I can't even see the PB to drag and drop, I get an error message saying "logon failure, unknown user or password". I've tried rebooting, no change, tried 3 different cables, nuttin! Thing is, it worked - sort of - up til a month ago. Have attached a pic of the computer response.

Try this: Delete the DM and everything associated with it. Go into your C drive and make sure that everything is gone. Reboot your computer, then reinstall the DM. This was something that I had to do when I first got my Playbook and my laptop wouldn't recognize it. I searched around for a solution and that's what I found. It worked! It's been a long time since I did that which is why it only occurred to me just now. Give it shot and post back!

But first: Have you tried using one of the other usb ports on your computer?

Originally Posted by mikemcginnis

Just checked the charger which puts out 1.8A. USB ports are limited to 500mA, so that explains that. I can't even see the PB to drag and drop, I get an error message saying "logon failure, unknown user or password". I've tried rebooting, no change, tried 3 different cables, nuttin! Thing is, it worked - sort of - up til a month ago. Have attached a pic of the computer response.

You can always try the workaround. First make sure WiFi Sharing is set to On. Then navigate to the PlayBooks settings. Tap the gear icon then About then Network. Take note of your IP address.

Then on your computer open the Run dialog box and type \\x.x.x.x Where x.x.x.x is the IP address you took note of earlier. Once the device is connected to the computer, navigate to the media folder which contains several sub-folders such as documents, music, photos, videos, etc, then you can then move files between the computer and these folders.

Originally Posted by ice2921

You can always try the workaround. First make sure WiFi Sharing is set to On. Then navigate to the PlayBooks settings. Tap the gear icon then About then Network. Take note of your IP address.

Then on your computer open the Run dialog box and type \\x.x.x.x Where x.x.x.x is the IP address you took note of earlier. Once the device is connected to the computer, navigate to the media folder which contains several sub-folders such as documents, music, photos, videos, etc, then you can then move files between the computer and these folders.

Can't connect this way, but maybe I haven't done it correctly. Where does the IP address get entered|? I know what the IP address is, just don't know how to use it!

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I have tried other ports with no success. I have completely uninstalled the Desktop S/W and reinstalled with all the updates, it worked once, now it won't work at all. It (PB) knows when I connect because the screen gets brighter, but fails to even recognize the PB.
If I can use the WiFi link that would be good, but I'm not sure how to set that up. Apart from that, the PB works fine over the WiFi for internet access.

You need to enter your IP address that you found on the PlayBook in the area outlined in the picture below:



In that search area type in \\x.x.x.x where the x.x.x.x would be your IP address. Remember you can find that by going to PlayBook settings then about and then network. It should work.