Jul. 28, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 11
When using a computer, many users encounter the issue where the USB2.0-CRW card reader is not recognized by the Windows system. This device is usually built into laptops and is used to read storage cards such as SD cards and MicroSD cards.
If it is not recognized, it can impact file transfer and access. This article analyzes the common causes and offers practical solutions to help you restore the functionality of the device.
The driver is not installed or is corrupted
The Windows system update caused driver incompatibility
The device is disabled or there's a hardware conflict
Insufficient power supply or faulty USB port
Chipset driver issues preventing recognition of integrated devices
Driver issues are the root cause of the USB2.0-CRW not being recognized. For users unfamiliar with manually downloading drivers, using Driver Talent is recommended. It automatically detects all missing or faulty drivers in the system and offers one-click repair.
Click the download button to get the latest version of Driver Talent. After installation, open the program and click "Scan".
Once the scan is complete, it will list all missing or outdated drivers. Find the USB2.0-CRW driver in the list and click the "Update" button.
After the update is complete, restart your computer to ensure the new driver takes effect.
Right-click the Start menu and select "Device Manager".
Expand "Universal Serial Bus Controllers" and locate "USB2.0-CRW".
Right-click it and select "Update driver".
Choose "Search automatically for drivers" or "Browse my computer for drivers" to manually select a downloaded driver folder.
After updating, check if the device is now working properly.
Open Device Manager.
Locate the "USB2.0-CRW" device. If its icon has a downward arrow, it means the device is disabled.
Right-click and select "Enable device".
The system will automatically reload the device.
In Device Manager, right-click the "USB2.0-CRW" device and select "Uninstall device".
After confirming the uninstallation, restart the computer or reconnect the device. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.
Sometimes, the USB2.0-CRW device depends on the chipset drivers of the motherboard.
Visit the official website of your laptop or motherboard manufacturer and download the latest Intel or AMD chipset drivers.
Q1: I can't find USB2.0-CRW in Device Manager. Is the device broken?
A: Not necessarily. The driver may be missing, or the chipset driver may be faulty. Try updating the relevant drivers first.
Q2: I updated the driver, but it's still not recognized. What should I do?
A: Try entering the BIOS to check if the built-in card reader is enabled. You can also try a system restore or perform a clean boot to troubleshoot software conflicts.
Q3: Will changing the USB port help?
A: In some models, USB ports may provide insufficient power or be degraded. Try switching to a USB port directly connected to the motherboard (like a rear panel USB port).
Most cases of USB2.0-CRW not being recognized are due to missing drivers, disabled devices, or system compatibility issues. By updating drivers, enabling the device, and checking chipset drivers, most users can resolve the issue themselves.
If none of the methods work, consider contacting your computer manufacturer or a professional technician for further diagnosis.
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