Computer doesn't acknowledge Z1s via USB

[masseryee]

I have a Z1s, Kitkat 4.4.4, trying to connect to a Lenovo laptop running W8.1.  The problem happened after I tried using Helium to backup my stuff.  The PC Helium program tried to get me to change my USB connection setting from MTP to PTP, which I wasn't able to (after selecting MTP option, it would freeze for 1 -2 secs then switch back to MTP.

Program never worked and now my computer doesn't even recognize my phone when it's plugged into USB2 port.  Tried restarting phone and laptop in varius orders enough times to really annoy anyone.  Tried 3 different cables, all of which work fine with another phone.  Tried all USB ports on computer.  Tried to reinstall drivers via Sony PC connect but can't because my phone isn't even recognized so it doesn't even give me the option.  Tried to download xperia z1s drivers from sony but all it is is just the driver (Seriously Sony?! You couldn't even take the 2 minutes to include an installer?!) and I have no idea where or how to install them.  Tried to do it manually via Device Manager, but couldn't figure it out, plus I don't think that's the issue.  There's no device in Device Manager that resembles my phone to even do a driver update, cuz my computer doesn't even acknowledge my phone when I plug it in.

I think the issue has something to do with either or a combination of:  Helium, MTP settings (which I have been searching for on my phone and online and can't find it anywhere.  Supposedly it's an option in "Storage" section but I don't have an "Options" menu under "Storage"), my phone being encrypted.

I need to reset my phone but since it's encrypted, I must pull all the data from my microSD card cuz once the phone resets, it, nor anything else won't be able to read the card and must be wiped.  That's the only way to unencrypt the SD card or phone.

Does anyone know where the MTP/USB connection settings are?  No, they are not found under USB onnection settings that I could find.  I really think it has something to do with that.

Thanks in advance!

cyy

[Thommo]

Settings - Xperia connectivity scroll to the bottom then USB connection mode

[masseryee]

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@Thommo wrote:

Settings - Xperia connectivity scroll to the bottom then USB connection mode

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Thanks for the response Thommo.  The only option I have under USB Connectivity setting is:

Install Software-"Install software for managing content on your Xperia from a computer"  Which I assume directs your computer browser to the download page for the Sony Connect Software

Wireless Media Transfer>Pair with PC-"Set [USB Connection mode] to [Media transfer mode (MTP)]".  ***But its faded out and won't let me choose it.  I've tried turning on and off Developer Options, along with the USB Debug mode and still doesn't allow me to select MTP setting, with the phone plug into computer or stand alone.

Any ideas?

[Uliwooly]

Unplug your phone (in case is still connected) > settings > Xperia connectivity > USB connectivity > you will see

Install software

USB connection mode 

           MPT

           MSC

-----------------------------

Pair with PC

Again, if a micro USB its connected to your phone, you won't see this option. 

[masseryee]

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@uliwooly wrote:

Unplug your phone (in case is still connected) > settings > Xperia connectivity > USB connectivity > you will see

Install software

USB connection mode 

           MPT

           MSC

-----------------------------

Pair with PC

Again, if a micro USB its connected to your phone, you won't see this option. 

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Thanx Uliwooly.  With or without anything plugged into my phone, the "Pair with PC" setting is still faded out and won't let me do anything with it.  Even tried restarting my phone...

[Uliwooly]

I have a Z1 right here and I see that option. 

Do you have custom ROM? 

what if you boot on safe mode and try again?

http://talk.sonymobile.com/t5/FAQ/How-to-boot-your-phone-into-safe-mode/m-p/348008#U348008

[masseryee]

Here's a screenshot of that setting.  This is how it is no matter what I've tried.  Safe mode, restarting phone, changing debugging options:  Nothing seems to work.  Now that I think about it, it can't be the encryption, cuz it worked before I used Helium.  Helium must've broke something in my phone.

I'm over it.  I saved the critical files by swapping out the microSD card and will have to manage without the rest.  Gonna do a hard reset.  If anyone has any idea what's going on, please share.

[Uliwooly]

Report back

[masseryee]

So I've done a factory restore including a wipe of SD card and before reinstalling or restoring any apps or app data, tried to connect to my laptop again but it's still a no go.  I guess that narrows the problem to my computer.  Still have no idea and need to transfer about 35 gigs of music and data to SD card but no idea how.  If I figure it out, I'll post it here.

[masseryee]

FYI, after Factory Restore, I now have the option to switch between MTP and MSC again where they're suppose to be.  Switching that to either or does nothing for my problem however.