Android SDK Error Device Not Found

What It Means

The 'Device Not Found' error in Android SDK indicates that the program does not recognize your phone when it is connected by a USB cable. You cannot transfer files or other data between the Android SDK program on your computer and your phone. In addition, the phone will not appear in the list of devices in the Android SDK device manager. This error can occur even when all other functionality in the phone and the program is in good working order and does not effect other parts of the phone or program.

Why It Happens

Most of the time, a 'Device Not Found' error occurs after you install Android SDK updates. Some updates change the location of the Android Debug Bridge,or ADB, tool, which is responsible for communication between the operating system and the phone. The second most common reason you will receive a 'Device Not Found' error is a faulty USB port on the computer causing bad or incomplete data transfers.

Repairing By Reconfiguing the Path

You should attempt to reconfigure the ADB tool path first. This will point the program to the tool location and allow the program to recognize your phone. Right-click on the 'My Computer' icon in Android SDK, and click 'Properties.' Select the 'Advanced' tab, and click 'Environment Variables.' If the variable path reads 'android-sdk/tools', you can likely fix a 'Device Not Found' error by clicking 'Add New Variable' and entering 'android-sdk/platform-tools.' If the path already says 'android-sdk/platform-tools,' you will have to follow the troubleshooting directions in the next section.

Repairing By Changing the USB Port

If a faulty USB port is the issue, you must disconnect the USB cord from the computer and restart Android SDK. Place the USB cord in a different port, and plug the other end into the phone. If this does not solve the problem, contact Android for additional assistance.