Raspberry Pi USB Host Polyfuse Modification

If your USB port is not working, then the polyfuse mod is useful for times when one cannot use an externally powered hub due to space or weight restrictions. F1 and F2 are located in the top left hand corner of the board near the diagnostic LEDs, as shown in the diagram above.

Replacement surface-mount device (SMD) polyfuses are available through online electronics stores at a very low cost. There is no reason to bypass them as replacement ones are available so cheaply.

USB Fuse Hack

Replacing F1 and F2 with ultra low resistance fuses with a higher trip value such as 250 mA makes a big difference. By increasing the current limit just slightly I was able to use a wider range of keyboards and mice, which was good enough for my humble needs.

Hack Works!

By increasing the current limit just slightly, and using ultra low resistance PTC fuses, I was able to use a wider range of keyboards and mice and the situation improved to that shown in the flow chart above.

Note: Any modifications to the Raspberry Pi board will render the warranty void. As usual, do not use a soldering iron if you are not qualified to do so. Terms and Conditions apply. Praising the Lord is optional.

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