Constantly Disconnecting Sony Walkman

[Vertal]

I have a Sony nwz-e436f, and for the past 3-4 months its been constantly disconnecting from my computer, but it originally did work. As soon as I plug it in the computer recognizes it, and then it disconnects continually. It charges, but I can't transfer any files because the device isn't even recognized in My Computer. I've looked around, and tried different things like uninstalling the device, updating drivers to set it to a USB storage device, and reformatting it, but it's done nothing.

It works fine on some computers, but has the same problem on others. I hope someone can tell me what I can do to fix this defective thing.

[CrowdAds]

[lestatar]

Hi...what OS/computer do you have?

[Vertal]

Win XP

[lestatar]

Hey Vertal, I don't have an E436, but an E345 on XP as well. I am no uber geek but will try and help...am sure other folks will chime in as well.

AFAIK, you should NOT NEED any drivers on your PC for the player. Unless the E436 specifically tells you, I think the thing should be recognized as an MTP device under WinXP without installing anything...

- Is your WinXP current with service packs, patches?

- It is possible that your USB connector on the PC is going bad and/or even the cable. Have you tried switching 1 or both?

- is your PC going to sleep/hibernation/some kind of power save mode? I have heard of this causing USB devices some issues...

As for transferring files...assuming you can get the device to stay connected on your PC with the device and fix the current issue, suggest you look into, download and try either/both:

Winamp
http://www.winamp.com/

MediaMonkey
http://www.mediamonkey.com/

Both can help you manage your device....Winamp works perfectly for all my devices. Both come in free version [all you need].

Please post back any progress you make...lots of helpful, knowledgable folks here....

good luck,
-lestatar

[Vertal]

Windows XP is as up to date as it can be.
I don't think it can be the cable or USB because the cable works fine connecting to most other computers, and I have my mouse connected to a USB slot and the walkman won't connect there either.
My computer never goes into standby/hibernate.
Winamp and Windows Media Player don't recognize the device as connected.

[Marvin the Martian]

I think there was something called an MTP Porting Kit, a collection of drivers to download....but if WMP11 is present, then theoretically this shouldn't be necessary.

[lestatar]

@Marvin: Thanks as always!

@Vertal: Look/check this out:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...displaylang=en

I believe Marvin is correct...IIRC if one does have WMP 11 installed on XP, then this should not be necessary.

Suggest you download and install this package. From MS, is safe and SHOULD NOT cause further probs for you and might actually fix your connection issue.

HOWEVER!!!!

Be sure to CREATE A SYSTEM RESTORE POINT FIRST before you install this or anything else. It is a good habit to get into and can get you out of trouble.

Your decision, but let us know how things work out if you proceed.

Cheers and good luck,
-lestatar

[Vertal]

Still isn't working

[lestatar]

Hmmm, Vertal...seems like a little tougher than normal

Couple more suggestions:
- Have you tried resetting the device?
- Have you tried formatting the device? [Usually, this will wipe everything from the device but restore all the default folder/configurations on the device - basically as if you just bought the device home]


Also, it seems that there is a FW [firmware update] for your device according to Sony...look here:
http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/swu...d=4015&os_id=7

Not sure if you did this yet or even if it will help - from the info on the Sony site, this FW update seems to be more feature related instead of resolving connection issues, but you never know.

Finally, before really doing any of the above, I would give Sony support a call or chat online with them...
http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/sup...?mdltype_id=69

I think text chat might be free...

Sorry, but I am out of ideas for you and since I don't have your model I don't want to give you bad advice...

Please let us know how you make out and good luck!
-lestatar