How to transfer pictures on my Nikon transfer software?

I have the Nikon transfer suite installed so that I can transfer images to my computer from my Nikon d5000.It is installed correctly, but when I have the cable connected to the camera and the camera on and everything, no images show up like they should. How can I transfer anything if no images will show up? Why could this possibly be happening? I appreciate your help!

Are the images viewable on the camera screen before you connect it to the PC?
… Or are there no images at all?

Personally, I stopped installing manufacturers software years ago, there's no need for it.
Just buy a memory card reader and transfer the images that way.

It's still up to your computer to recognize that a camera is attached and to notify the program (AutoPlay on Windows).

On some cameras, the USB port goes on standby along with the rest of the camera. Half-pressing the shutter release or pressing any other button usually wakes it back up for a few seconds.

But like many will say, it's a lot simpler to just transfer using a card reader. (Nikon Transfer can still import the images this way, if I recall correctly.)