Device Manager Code 45: Hardware device is not connected to the computer
The device previously functioned and its driver remains registered, but Windows cannot physically detect electrical communication across the USB or PCIe interface.
Internal desktop parts run on harmless 12V DC voltage and cannot shock you. Simply unplug the wall power cable first, then touch the unpainted metal case frame to ground static electricity.
Common Symptoms & Tells
- Device icon appears translucent or faded in Device Manager
- Status reads: 'Currently, this hardware device is not connected to the computer. (Code 45)'
- Bluetooth adapter or webcam intermittently disappears completely
Interactive Fix Checklist
0 of 5 steps completedSafety power-off and discharge
Shut down the PC, turn off the power supply rocker switch (O), and unplug the AC power cord from the wall outlet. Press the front power button once while unplugged to discharge residual capacitor energy before touching any internal components.
Reseat the physical hardware cable or connector
If it is an internal M.2 Wi-Fi card, PCIe expansion card, or webcam cable, shut down the PC, unplug power, and reseat the card firmly into its motherboard slot.
Connect external USB devices to rear motherboard USB ports
Front-panel USB ports and unpowered USB hubs often fail to deliver sufficient current. Plug the device directly into a rear motherboard USB 3.0 port.
Uninstall ghost / hidden device entries
In Device Manager, click View > Show hidden devices > Expand the affected section > Right-click the greyed-out Code 45 entry and click 'Uninstall device'. Reconnect the device to trigger fresh detection.
Test device on a different computer
Connect the peripheral or USB hardware to a second PC or laptop. If it fails to register there as well, the device has suffered hardware failure (dead controller or broken solder connection).
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