GameRepair

Fix ‘The USB Storage Device Is Not Connected’ Error for PS4

Jack

By Jack Lin

Update on

The Usb Storage Device Is Not Connected

The USB storage device is not connected PS4“. I get an error message with this text when I connect a USB storage (flash) to my PS4. What could be the possible reason for it? Can someone help me fix this issue?

The above is a pretty common issue experienced by some PS4 users. They experience this issue when they try to connect a USB storage device to their console.

That said, here we explain easy solutions to get rid of “PS4 the USB storage device is not connected“.

Issue 1: The USB Storage Device Is Not Connected to PS4  

You will see a message giving an idea that this USB storage cannot be used. Also, it says that the file system is not supported.

the USB storage device is not connected PS4

If you plug a USB flash drive into your PS4 console, that should work correctly. However, in some cases, you might notice that there are some errors associated with it. As a result, it might give out an error message containing “the USB storage device is not connected PS4“.

Well, the truth is that there is nothing to worry about seriously about this matter. In fact, “PS4 the USB storage device is not connected” is not a drastic error. As per the entire error message, it is all about an unsupported file system found on your USB flash.

In some cases, the respective flash drive will work properly if you format it. All you need is to format the device. If you don’t know how to format your flash drive, you may follow the instructions below.

The first thing to consider before formatting your USB flash is its file system. Well, PS4 consoles are compatible with two file systems. They work either with FAT32 or exFAT. With that said, you should understand that your USB flash will work only if they have these file systems. In other words, the USB storage device is not connected, probably because it has the wrong file format.

Well, what you must know is that all those USB flash drives are equipped with flash drives. However, the bad news is that NTFS is not compatible with PS4 consoles.

In that case, you should use efficient, practical tools that can format your flash drive. A good formatting tool will help you acquire more space and even create data backup.

How to Format USB Flash Drive to Fix the Issue?

With that said, mentioned below are those steps to follow if you want to format your USB flash drive.

There are two different ways to change the file format of NFTS to something compatible. In other words, there are two ways to convert NTFS into exFAT or FAT32. In this case, we will be using a free tool so you can manage your storage.

When it comes to formatting your USB flash drive, which format should you choose? Should you go with exFAT? Or FAT32? The decision depends. Well, exFAT doesn’t have any limitation implied on the hard drive size of the file.

On the other hand, FAT32 allows a maximum size of 4GB for individual files. Also, the maximum hard drive size doesn’t exceed 32GB. Therefore, you should choose the file type based on the requirement you have in mind.

Important: One of the most important things you should know is that formatting will delete your data. It is possible to format the USB drive even if there are no files in it. If you don’t have any important files in it, formatting is not going to be a problem. If not, it is always recommended to transfer the files to a different drive before initiating the formatting.

In addition, if you are searching for the Best Hard Drive Docking Station, this guide you should check out.

Solution 1. How to Format USB to FAT32 via EaseUS Partition Manager

Step 01: Download EaseUS Windows Partition Manager

The first step is to download EaseUS Windows Partition Manager on your computer and get it installed. This is a special application that can easily get the job done. It will fulfill the requirement of creating partitions and managing them apart from formatting.

This specific tool works perfectly on Windows 7 to 10. With the assistance of the EaseUS Partition Manager, you can expect a one-stop solution for all your partitioning needs.

Mentioned below are some of the special abilities associated with this tool.

  • Resize or move the entire partition.
  • Creating new partitions, format partitions, merging them, or deleting existing partitions.
  • You can copy an entire disk and create a clone of it easily. In fact, it can create a clone even if the destination is smaller compared to the original.
  • It can change a primary partition to a logical one and vice versa. Also, it can transform the FAT file system to NTFS. Likewise, it can change different other partitions.  
  • It can wipe out everything on a hard disk or any other physical device. So, your data will not be recovered by third parties.  

Step 02: Attach Your USB Device

Now, you should attach the USB device to the same PC and format it. When you format, however, be sure to use NTFS to FAT32. If not, the “PS4 the USB storage device is not connected” issue will continue.

Step 03: Open EaseUS Partition Master

Now, open the application to see its main interface. The partitions will be visible in the interface. Now, you should right-click on the partition you want to format. Click on the option called “Format.”

Then, you will be directed to a new window. Just provide the partition label and select the file type to be FAT32 to proceed. Then, choose a size for the cluster as well and proceed by pressing OK.

EaseUS Partition Master - Format
Format Partiton to FAT32

Step 04: Complete

Now, you will be able to see a warning message. All you need is to press “OK” to proceed. After that, just continue. Click on the option called “Execute Operation.” It can be found in the top-left corner. You can then review the changes and click on “Apply.” That will format the respective partition with FAT32.

Execute Operation
Fix the USB storage device is not connected with EaseUS partition Master

That’s basically it. You can go ahead and check if the “the USB storage device is not connected PS4” is Gone.

Also, you should note that EaseUS Partition Master cannot convert the NTFS file system to exFAT. If you want to format any USB flash to exFAT, you’ll have to use the option called Disk Management.

Solution 2. How to Use Disk Management to Format a USB Drive to Fat32 or ExFAT

As mentioned before, Windows Disk Management is a tool that lets you convert a USB drive into exFAT. The same tool can convert the respective USB into FAT32 as well.

In fact, there are several different ways to launch this utility called Windows Disk Management. Accessing it through the “Run” command might be the most convenient option.

Also, this specific option is available on all Windows versions. So, let’s go ahead and try this option through the “Run” command.

  • First, you should press both Windows and R keys at the same time. That will bring up the “Run” command. Once the run command opens, you should enter the text “diskmgmt.msc“. After that, you can hit the button called “OK.”
Format USB Drive to FAT32 to fix the USB storage device is not connected
  • Now, you should perform a right-click on the USB drive. After that, you should click on the option called “Format.”
  • You can then click on the option called a File system. After that, please choose the option labeled “FAT32” and click “OK.”
Format File System set to FAT32

The above method should fix the “the USB storage device is not connected” issue and let you use it.

Besides, let’s learn more about how to convert exFAT to FAT32 with ease.


Issue 2. The USB Storage Device Is Not Connected for PS4

the USB storage device is not connected Issue

Here’s the second instance. As per this issue, your USB flash is actually connected to the PS4 console. However, the error message still displays it as “not connected.” In fact, this can happen due to two major reasons.

In most cases, it can be due to a compatibility issue. If not, the same error can trigger if the respective device is not connected properly. You may notice the same error because of a hardware failure (USB port failure) as well.

No matter how the “PS4 the USB storage device is not connected” issue is triggered, you should fix it. And, mentioned below are the steps you can try.

In order to fix this issue, you are supposed to connect the same device to a different USB port. You may also try a USB cable with USB 3.0 compatibility. If it’s triggered due to an incompatible device, there’s no other option than to try a different device.

In this case, it is important to switch to a branded storage device to store your data. In most cases, branded devices work smoothly without causing much trouble.

Besides, here are the top solutions to fix the USB device not recognized issue you should check out.


Conclusion

As you see, the above content explains the solutions to fix “the USB storage device is not connected PS4.” In most cases, this issue should be gone after formatting the USB drive to the supported file system.

If not, you can check if the hardware is incompatible or have a physical failure. If none of the options work, you may replace the faulty USB flash drive with a new, branded one.

PS: here is the top PS4 USB Hub for your reference.


FAQ on “PS4 the USB Storage Device Is Not Connected” Issue

1. Why does my PS4 show the error message “The USB Storage Device Is Not Connected”?

The error message usually occurs due to issues like faulty USB ports, compatibility problems, insufficient power supply, or a corrupted file system on the USB storage device.

2. How can I determine if my USB storage device is compatible with the PS4?

You can check the official PlayStation website for a list of compatible USB storage devices. If your device is not listed, it may not be compatible with the PS4 system.

3. Can I use any USB cable to connect my storage device to the PS4?

No, it’s essential to use a USB cable that is compatible with both the PS4 and the storage device. Using an incompatible cable may lead to connectivity issues.

4. Will formatting the USB storage device delete all my data?

Yes, formatting the USB storage device will erase all the data on it. Make sure to create a backup before proceeding with the formatting process.

5. How often should I update my PS4 system software?

It’s recommended to keep your PS4 system software up to date by regularly checking for updates. This helps ensure optimal performance and compatibility with various devices, including USB storage.

6. What should I do if none of the solutions work?

If none of the solutions mentioned above resolve the error, it’s advisable to contact PlayStation support for further assistance. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific issue.


Conclusion

Encountering the “The USB Storage Device Is Not Connected” error on your PS4 can be frustrating, but with the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can resolve the issue and connect your USB storage device successfully.

Remember to check the USB port and cable, verify device compatibility, consider an external power supply if required, format the USB storage device if needed, and keep your PS4 system software up to date. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and error-free gaming experience on your PS4.

Jack
Jack

10 years of experience in information and computer technology. Passionate about electronic devices, smartphones, computers, and modern technology.

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