A:Answer Before turning on computer plug the cable in connector on the drive, then unplug cable, then plug it back into drive. Then plug cable into computer USB port. Unplug it from USB port. turn computer on and load windows. Then plug cable back into USB port. See if this helps. Option 2, use another USB port on the Computer. Not every USB port has enough power to keep drive running a long time. - Are you laying drive on a soft surface when you use it ? if you lay it on a carpet, bed, or other soft service, the drive can be overheated and shutdown. See laptop owners manual as to know what USB port can supple the most amps of current. Some USB ports provide over 1 amp ( 5 watts). other USB ports only supply 1/2 amp (2.5 watts) - Manual will tell you what USB port has more power output.