USB device descriptor request failed (code 43)

Jeff Minter 0 Reputation points
2026-09-17T19:50:17.26+00:00

Scanner usb cable was accidentally unplugged. when reconnected it will not communicate with the desktop from the control panel of the scanner, but will communicate with the scanner from the application on the desktop.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers
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  1. Ivan B 124.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-17T20:26:43.4666667+00:00

    Hi,

    Go to Device Manager, take a screenshot, and post it here.

    What is the scanner model?

    Thanks.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-09-17T19:50:33.6166667+00:00

    A practical first path is to refresh the scanner device and the Windows scanning service.

    1. Remove and reconnect the scanner device:
      • Open Settings.
      • Go to Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
      • Select the affected multifunction printer/scanner and remove it.
      • Disconnect the USB cable.
      • Reconnect the USB device.
      • In some cases, Windows 11 recognizes the scanner again after reconnection.
    2. If the scanner still is not detected correctly, uninstall and reinstall it from Device Manager:
      • Open Device Manager.
      • Find the scanner or the unknown USB device with the warning icon.
      • Right-click it and select Uninstall.
      • On the menu bar, select Action > Scan for hardware changes.
      • This reinstalls the device driver.
    3. Restart the Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) service:
      • Open Services.
      • Find Windows Image Acquisition (WIA).
      • Stop the service, then start it again.
    4. Restart the PC with the scanner connected if the issue continues.
    5. Because the error is Code 43, also check the USB connection itself:
      • Try a different USB port.
      • Try a different USB cable if available.
      • If the device works elsewhere but not on this desktop, the port or cable can be part of the problem.

    Code 43 means Windows stopped the device because the driver reported a problem. The recommended Windows resolution is to uninstall and reinstall the device. For “device descriptor request failed,” failed USB enumeration can also cause the device to appear as unknown.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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