TomTom Device Not Recognized by Computer — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Your computer or MyDrive Connect cannot see your TomTom device when connected via USB. This blocks map and software updates. The most common causes are a faulty USB cable, the wrong USB mode on the device, or an outdated MyDrive Connect installation.

Affected Models

TomTom GO 520
TomTom GO 620
TomTom GO 5200
TomTom GO 6200
All TomTom GPS devices

Common Causes

USB cable is charge-only (no data wires)
Outdated MyDrive Connect
Device in wrong USB mode
USB port not working on computer
USB port on TomTom device damaged

How to Fix It

Try a different USB cable — confirm it is a data cable, not charge-only.

Many micro-USB cables only carry power. Try the original cable or a quality data cable.
Connect directly to a USB port on the computer, not a USB hub.

Hubs reduce available power and can cause detection failures.
Update MyDrive Connect to the latest version.

Old versions of MyDrive Connect sometimes fail to detect newer TomTom models.
Restart both the computer and the TomTom device, then reconnect.

A fresh connection after restart resolves most detection problems.
Check if TomTom shows a connection prompt on its screen and confirm it.

Some models require you to confirm the USB connection type on the device screen. Choose the appropriate mode.

When to Call a Professional

If the device is not recognized on multiple computers with multiple known-good cables, the USB port on the TomTom may be physically damaged. Contact TomTom support for a repair or warranty replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Windows show TomTom as an unknown device?

An unknown device error usually means the USB driver is missing or the cable has no data wires. Installing MyDrive Connect installs the required USB drivers automatically. Try reinstalling MyDrive Connect and using a different cable.

Does TomTom work on Mac?

Yes — MyDrive Connect is available for both Mac and Windows. The connection and update process is identical on both platforms. Download the Mac version from TomTom's website.