USB extension lead

[willowman]

My external hard drive (small backup unit) isn't recognised by my PC if I use an extension lead to connect it to the USB port.
I can understand a hub may need power, but what difference does a simple lead make?
I want to use a lead because the PC is now installed in a desk and the rear ports are near impossible to reach, and I don't want to leave the external drive permanently connected for security.

[ACtheTROLL]

what do you mean by extension?

http://www.usb.org/about/faq/ans5
the lengths are a bit optimistic

A HDD works best with the big thick cables with a platted shield.

the older thin cables should work ... but without the shielding you can get errors - or what you describe

[willowman]

Thanks AC, the lead is a light grey lead with a male one end and female the other.
It is not shielded.
However problem now solved 'cos I bought a powered hub (only �7) so I can run all my peripherals.
Thanks again for replying