...my iPhone works on all USB ports in the house including computers and external hubs. My speaker charger ( usb to micro) only works on the new MBP though it used to work on certain ports in my external hub. I know that sounds crazy but that's the way it is.
It's a good thing you've got a good sense of humor; considering the sum total of all the threads you've got and had going recently it's a wonder that you haven't thrown your iBook through a window long ago.
All considered, the cable sure sounds like your culprit.
