Windows – Install Android USB Driver when device is not shown in device manager

androiddriversnexus-5windows 7

the title is quite explicit :
I'm trying to install google's driver for my android device in order to use it for development ( I need it to be seen by 'adb devices' )

I've got a Nexus 5 and windows 7 x64

Everywhere I can read :

plug your device, go to device manager, right click on Android device,
update driver and choose from disk to install google's usb-driver from the extra folder of
android sdk

But when I plug my nexus 5 to my pc, nothing happen at all 🙁
I've try several usb ports, several usb conection modes (on the phone : MTP, PTP) with usb debug enabled/disabled. there is nothing I can do.

I've also try another device : the sony xperia Z1. this one is shown as "Unknown Device" and if I try to install google's driver, it says

The driver for this hardware is up to date : "Unknown device"

I've got no lead so any advice is welcome.

EDIT :
this thread from xda-developpers says "uninstall all drivers" then plug the android device…

Does anyone know how to uninstall a driver that is not showing up in wondows 7 ?

Best Answer

Ok thanks a lot to Mr grawity :)

I've manage to see the nexus 5 appear in windows 7 device manager by using another usb cable.

As you said Why the hell would someone sell usb cable with "Charge only" capability :( but we should be aware : that exists.

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