While debugging, my device frequently disconnects from my PC, usually after every debug session. The device still appears in the DDMS list but the status is \"offline\". The
Yup, you are right. It seems to be a software issue.I have faced this annoying thing many times, it happens now and then. I think what happens is that the adb's connection with the device/emulator breaks or becomes faulty, so android starts showing the device as offline.
To correct this problem. Go to DDMS-->Devices Tab-->Click the option "Reset adb" (which is the last option, on clicking the dropdown arrow) . You will then see some error report in the console, but after a minute your emulator would be ready to be used without problems. I do it all the time and it works. Try this instead of manually plugging/unplugging the device.