How to See What Is Plugged Into USB on Mac
USB devices are an integral part of our daily lives, connecting various peripherals to our Mac computers. However, at times, it becomes necessary to know what devices are currently connected or have been previously connected to our Mac’s USB ports. In this article, we will explore different methods to see what is plugged into the USB ports on your Mac, providing you with a comprehensive guide to monitoring USB devices. Additionally, we will address some frequently asked questions to assist you further.
Method 1: Using System Information
1. Launch the System Information application on your Mac. You can find it by clicking on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen, selecting “About This Mac,” and then clicking on the “System Report” button.
2. In the System Information window, locate “USB” under the “Hardware” section in the left-hand sidebar and click on it.
3. On the right side of the window, you will find information about the USB devices connected to your Mac. The list will include details such as Device Name, Manufacturer, Product ID, Vendor ID, and more.
4. To view more specific information about a particular USB device, click on its name in the list. This will display detailed information regarding the device’s configuration, power requirements, and connection status.
Method 2: Using Terminal
1. Open the Terminal application on your Mac. You can find it in the “Utilities” folder within the “Applications” folder or by searching for “Terminal” using Spotlight.
2. Once the Terminal window is open, type the following command and press Enter:
`system_profiler SPUSBDataType`
This command will display a detailed list of all USB devices connected to your Mac.
3. The list will include information such as Device Name, Manufacturer, Product ID, Vendor ID, and more. Scroll through the list to find the specific device you are interested in.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Applications
There are several third-party applications available that provide a user-friendly interface for monitoring USB devices on your Mac. Some popular choices include “USB Prober” and “USBlyzer.” These applications offer advanced features and detailed information about connected USB devices.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I see the history of USB devices connected to my Mac?
A1: Unfortunately, macOS does not provide a built-in feature to view the history of USB devices. However, you can manually keep track of connected devices using the methods mentioned above or by periodically checking the System Information or Terminal outputs.
Q2: How can I identify a specific USB port that a device is connected to?
A2: While there is no direct way to identify which USB port a device is connected to using native macOS tools, you can try unplugging and replugging the device while observing the System Information or Terminal outputs. The device that disappears and reappears in the list indicates the port it is connected to.
Q3: Are there any security concerns with monitoring USB devices?
A3: Monitoring USB devices on your Mac does not pose any security risks on its own. However, it is essential to ensure that the connected devices are from trusted sources and do not carry any malicious software or malware that could compromise your system.
In conclusion, monitoring USB devices on your Mac is a straightforward process that can be accomplished using built-in tools like System Information or Terminal. These methods provide valuable information about connected USB devices, enabling you to keep track of your peripherals and troubleshoot any connectivity issues effectively. Additionally, third-party applications offer more advanced features for in-depth USB device analysis. Remember to exercise caution while connecting USB devices and stay vigilant against potential security threats.