I did try all the USB ports on my computer (back panel, 2 USB headers on the motherboard). Got the same results for everything. I have an old FIrewire/USB pci card that I was thinking of installing to test out but I haven't had the time to do so yet.

My computer setup is only about 2 years old. USB 2.0 was implemented long before that and every other device I connected to my ports (flash drives, card readers, external hard drives) connected without a hitch.

Just to qualify what I talked about above, I'm not complaining/threatening to sell my N900/never buy Nokia evarrr again if this doesn't get fixed. I'm just simply curious as to why it happened and if there was any way to restore the previous functionality. I fully enjoy the experience I have had with my N900 and do not regret my decision to purchase it. Is it perfect? No, but then again what is?

The "fix" that I figured out, while not the best, is enough to satisfy me for now. I am curious though if anyone else has had this problem.