hmm, see if this link helps, http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;329256

Bacillus, thanks for the reply. I tried the fix and it was not fixing anything. Also, it seems that the files in my system (XP SP1, with regular updates) have higher version number. Anyway, here is some more info:

1. The Firewire HDD and the iPod have been used in the system for around a year, evenything was fine except they were not enumerated starting today.

2. I ran the Dell diagnostic test (build 1096), everything passed.

Any suggestions???

Also, is it possible the firewire port on the I8200 worn out? I used my iPod on the machine since November 2002. I plug in and out around once or twice a week. I never notice any loss connection before. Any suggestions are welcome.

Mike 

Hi Mike,

I am experiencing the exact same problem. Today my Firewire port stopped working, and I am at a lose. I am in middle of a very large Video editing project with requires the firewire port (I use an external 200MB HD, as well as capturing from a Video camera) and they are now both not working. In the Device manager everything seems to be fine. I also tried plugging my IPod and it also was not detected, I tested with several cables and no help.

My Inspiron is new, so I doubt it got worn out or something (I have it only for about 2-3 months).

A similar thing happened to my internal modem about 2 days ago and I had to switch to a PCMCIA one.

I am using an Inspiron 8600 with WinXP......

If you come up with any solutions please let me know, I'll do the same.

Regards, Chaim

Chaim,

It seems mine is the firewire port. I just bought a USB2/firewire combo PC card. Both of my firewire HDD and iPod can be detected without a hitch. As I posted on the General hardware form, it seems Dell knows the issue, at least for I8200. I still have VISA extended warantee covering my laptop, they are suppose to pay for any fixing. I am waiting the claim form from them now. Good luck.

Mike

I'm just wondering if Formatting and reinstalling Windows may do something...

I Also found this article on the Microsoft site, maybe it has something to do with it? Although don't think putting the computer on standby while an external HD is running would cause it to not work anymore?!

==================
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;329909
IEEE 1394 Storage Device Detection Does Not Work When the System Resumes from Standby or Hibernation
View products that this article applies to.
This article was previously published under Q329909
SYMPTOMS
When an IEEE 1394 storage device, such as a CD-ROM or external disk drive, is connected to your Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1)-based system, the device-detection process may not work after the systems resumes from standby or hibernation. Therefore, the device does not work.
RESOLUTION
A supported fix is now available from Microsoft, but it is only intended to correct the problem that is described in this article. Apply it only to computers that are experiencing this specific problem. This fix may receive additional testing. Therefore, if you are not severely affected by this problem, Microsoft recommends that you wait for the next Windows XP service pack that contains this fix.

To resolve this problem immediately, contact Microsoft Product Support Services to obtain the fix. For a complete list of Microsoft Product Support Services phone numbers and information about support costs, visit the following Microsoft Web site:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;EN-US;CNTACTMS

Hi- I have same problem. Did you get a fix? Thank you.

No fix yet, this problem is driving me crazy. I am considering reformatting my drive, that way if it was due to conflicting devices or something caused by some software it should start working again. I just gotta make sure I have all my files backed up (I tend to realize I forgot backing up files after I already format my drive, this time decided to make sure I take my time.)

Let me know if you come up with anything. Good Luck!