Title: CH340C Not Working After Windows Update: A Guide to Troubleshooting and Solutions
Introduction:
The CH340C USB-to-serial adapter is a commonly used chip for connecting micro Controllers and devices to a computer. However, some users have reported that the CH340C stops working after a Windows update. This issue can be frustrating, but it's typically due to a few known causes that can be resolved with the right approach.
In this guide, we will explain why the CH340C may stop working after a Windows update, and we will walk you through step-by-step solutions to get it working again.
Possible Causes:
Driver Conflicts: Windows updates may sometimes cause conflicts with existing drivers, or they might install newer drivers that are incompatible with your CH340C device.
Missing or Corrupted Driver: Windows updates could unintentionally remove or corrupt the CH340C driver, which is crucial for proper communication between your device and the computer.
Changes in Windows Device Management : Windows updates often tweak system settings or modify USB Controllers , which might result in the CH340C not being properly recognized.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting and Solutions:
1. Check Device Manager for Errors
Action: Open the Device Manager (press Windows + X and select Device Manager).
Look under Ports (COM & LPT) or Universal Serial Bus Controllers for a device labeled "CH340" or "USB-SERIAL CH340".
If you see an error icon (yellow triangle) next to it: This means there’s an issue with the driver.
Solution:
Right-click the device with the error and select Update Driver.
Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
If Windows cannot find the driver, proceed to the next step.
2. Reinstall the CH340C Driver
Action: Sometimes, simply reinstalling the driver will resolve the issue.
Steps:
Unplug the CH340C device from the USB port. In Device Manager, right-click the "CH340" device and choose Uninstall device. Disconnect and reconnect the CH340C to your computer. Windows should attempt to reinstall the driver automatically. If it doesn’t, download the correct driver from the official website of the CH340 manufacturer.Solution: Download the latest driver from the official site (usually WCH or other trusted sources) and install it manually if needed.
3. Install or Update the CH340C Driver Manually
Action: If the automatic driver installation fails, download the driver manually.
Steps:
Visit the manufacturer’s official website and download the CH340 driver for your version of Windows. Extract the files and run the installer. After installation, restart your computer. Plug the CH340C back into the USB port.Solution: Ensure that you select the driver that matches your Windows version (32-bit or 64-bit). After installing the driver, check Device Manager again to see if the device is working properly.
4. Check USB Port and Cable
Action: Sometimes, the issue could be as simple as a faulty USB port or cable.
Steps:
Try connecting the CH340C to a different USB port on your computer. Use a different USB cable if available to rule out cable-related issues.Solution: If the device works on another port or with another cable, the original port or cable may be faulty.
5. Disable Windows Driver Signature Enforcement (Advanced)
Action: Windows may block the installation of unsigned drivers, especially after updates.
Steps:
Restart your computer and press F8 (or Shift + F8) during boot to access the Advanced Boot Options. Select Disable Driver Signature Enforcement. Reinstall the CH340 driver manually as described in step 3.Solution: This solution is only necessary if Windows blocks the installation of your CH340 driver. Make sure the driver is from a trusted source.
6. Use Windows System Restore (Last Resort)
Action: If the problem persists and you suspect the Windows update caused a system-wide issue, you can try rolling back the system to a previous restore point.
Steps:
Open the Control Panel and search for System Restore. Select Create a restore point and then click System Restore. Choose a restore point before the Windows update was applied and follow the on-screen instructions.Solution: System Restore can undo the changes made by a problematic update, which may solve the issue if the CH340C worked correctly before.
Conclusion:
If your CH340C USB-to-serial adapter stops working after a Windows update, it’s likely due to driver issues, missing drivers, or conflicts with recent changes in the operating system. By following these simple troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the issue and get your device working again. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer or check for any known issues related to your specific version of Windows.
