Cannot backup iPhone 3GS. Error Message: iTunes could not backup iPhone because iPhone Disconnected. What is the fix for this problem?

Hi, I'm hoping someone can help me find a solution to my problem.
When a backup is attempted, it starts off as if it's working, then stops and the following error message appears: "iTunes could not backup iPhone because the iPhone disconnected". But, the iPhone doesn't really disconnect! It must be some type of internal glitch.
The iPhone is a 3GS and I have mostly pictures and contacts, two songs, a total of 33 apps. The iOS is updated (6.1.6). I do not know if this phone was ever jailbroke. I have been able to backup this phone before, but cannot now. The last backup was 9/21/13, it is now 3/2/14.
Sorry if there is too much info, or not the correct info to find a solution!
Also, I must say that although I am not a tekkie, I've seen many different types of various programs and I find that iTunes is not very intuitive...don't mean to hurt anyone's feelings, just my humble opinion.
Thank You,
Camp917

Hey Lawrence,
A big THANK YOU!! to you! Your suggestions worked!
Before I changed USB ports (more on that in a sec...), I employed one of your suggestions that you gave to someone else with the same problem...and that was to clean the connector on the bottom of the phone with a soft dry tooth brush. I couldn't believe the amount of lint that came out! Especially what was found in either end...had to do some very careful picking. (Almost enough lint to knit a small sweater!!)
Changing the USB port was the second and final step required for a successful backup. My computer is a laptop, and I did have a USB Bluetooth adapter (for another device) installed. I removed the adapter, plugged the iPhone into that USB port, crossed my fingers...and it worked!!!
Now if I can figure out the rest of this darn program, I might upgrade to a new iPhone!
Again, thank you very much Lawrence!
Rich

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Cannot backup iPhone 3GS. Error Message: iTunes could not backup iPhone because iPhone Disconnected. What is the fix for this problem?

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