How to programmatically unplug & replug an arbitrary USB device?

Question

I\'m trying to fix a non-responsive USB device that\'s masquerading as a virtual COM port. Manual replugging works, but there may be up to 12 of these units. Is there an API

Answer 1

Here's some hands on guidance:

http://digital.ni.com/public.nsf/allkb/1D120A90884C25AF862573A700602459

This is more hardcore:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/311272

I'd say that using devcon.exe may solve some problems, not mine though. Suppose that you can build a box with arrays of USB-ports, where the power line is interrupted with FETs controlled by a MCU. The MCU should talk something basic and reliable, like RS-232. There might be an arduino board that simplifies the scary hardware work.