YIKES going to call Provo Craft - Any suggestions

[MeuCow]

Ok - so I think that my Cricut Expression (out of warranty) has a broken/faulty USB port. I've eliminated EVERY other possibility for 4 days. I'm going to call Provo Craft and see where it gets me (yes, I know their Customer Service is crummy). Anyone have any words of wisdom. I know that I cannot mention SCAL or any 3rd party software BUT have to explain why I'm using my USB port. So should I say that I use their 'Design Studio' and all of a sudden they are 'NOT' communicating?
I know for a fact that for SCAL I have the right drivers. I also know that for SCAL in Device Manager I should see USB 'CONVERTER' When I connect the USB cord to MY Cricut Expression, it's NOT showing up. Borrowed a friend's Peronal Cricut - it's there. SO, I know my computer has the right drivers. I'm just now sure how to approach Provo with a broken USB port and what to 'say' (or not say). REALLY appreciate any help here

[talanhart]

When you hooked up your friends Cricut, were you able to cut using SCAL and that Machine?

[MeuCow]

Yes! I troubleshooted and posted on the forum here for 4 days. I was able to see the USB converter (in my Device Manager) when I connected my friend's personal Cricut to my computer using USB cord directly into my computer. BUT when I connected my Cricut Expression to my computer (same cord etc.) USB converter is NOT showing. I've tried pretty much every single option I could try. My Cricut DOES cut with a cartridge (which I NEVER use, I use SCAL1 exclusively for my non-profit business).

[mitsim]

Really does sound like your Expression connection got blown out. You said you'd had it for years? So, it is probably not under warranty anymore. Doesn't sound good. Do you still use your Cricut carts? Or would you go to a different cutting machine if yours is kaput?

[mhr12761]

I have heard some are getting their USB ports fixed on gypsies and expressions at computer repair shops. It might be worth checking, I remember them talking bout it costing like $40-$60 range. I mean they repair computer USB ports, it's basically the same! Good luck! Hope this helps!

[talanhart]

I know this is a long shot, but looking at a USB hub, there are 4 wires inside that make the connection when you plug in your cable. Can you see if the are sticking up slightly or have they become compressed after being used so many times? I'm wondering if your connection is just loose.

[MeuCow]

Todd.... Thank you in advance For the suggestion. I just looked at it and it looks fine... Also compared it with my friends personal cricut that I'm borrowing to troubleshoot and they look identical. Nothing looks wrong at all with the port...I'm so frustrated!

[talanhart]

Check out this website. It might help you.

http://everhack.blog.atxhackerspace.org ... pair-info/

[BobSa]

Please contact me if you would like my Cricut Expression that runs SCAL version 2. I "lost" my version 2 software and thus moved to a Silh' Cameo running version 3 of SCAL. catsue26 at yahoo.

[MeuCow]

Todd
Thanks have seen the site. Unfortunately not helping.
I even took apart machine to ensue no crack etc...
I'm at a loss.