[Derf]

1) kobo has updated the latest firmware to support Overdrive direct on all the latest models including the Clara HD, H2O2, and Aura One. If you have to replace it, any model will work for your daughter’s needs.

2) find out if it’s a) the miniUSB port on the KA1, b) the cable, or c) the 12V adapter that is bad. Test other cables, or other chargers to verify that it is the KA1 that is defective. Also see my next point.

3) when I plug my Clara into my iMac sometimes the first time it doesn’t register. I often have to pull the plug out of the USB port and push it in again. I believe this may have to do with whether the Clara is connected to the cable first and then to the computer, or if the cable is connected to the computer first and then to the Clara. If it is the latter (as I often leave the charger cable in the computer) it happens more frequently. If it is the former it seems to happen less so. Bottom line, do not assume the USB port on the computer is bad if the first time you connect to it the device does not register.

4) If it IS the KA1 USB port that is damaged, do a google search in your area for cell phone repair shops. You aren’t looking for the ones that just do screen swaps, but often there will be a shop with a reflow soldering station that can fix bad components on cell phone / laptop / computer circuit boards for much less than a new device. You’ll probably have to call ahead and ask, but in my area the third place I called did it, and they replaced two bad OPAmps on a 3D printer main board in less than 10 minutes when I brought them in the board. Price was about $50, which is steep in the hourly rate, but cheaper than a $900 printer.