windows xp cannot install any devices using usb

[erik.van.geit]

Hi, dear members,

Trying to install scanner, printer, ...
I do not think it matters what exactly I'm installing, but for the sake of completeness:
1. HP Scanjet 3800
2. HP Photosmart 2575

I inserted the install CD, run the install procedure, ...
When arriving at the point: "please plug in your device", I do as asked (tried several USB ports), but then nothing happens anymore. The device is not found.

What can be done?

thanks for any simple tips,
Erik

Preshistory if it matters: I know that users often make the error* to plug in the device and only then start the Install CD, because they think that Windows will do the job correctly for them. That's also what I've done. Didn't work, so I uninstalled everything...

* error "thanks" to those very clever engineers who allow those mistakes

 

[Marbles]

Erik

I think the printer might still be in the devices list, even though the message asks you to plug it in, it's already there. If you uninstall the software, then delete the printer from the devices list, then start again, it should work.

 

[Marbles]

Another way I forgot to mention yesterday: Is to get the Add Hardware wizard in the Control Panel to search for recently installed items, and let it try from there.

 

[erik.van.geit]

Thank you for your answer, Marbles!

The printer was not anymore in the list.
The trick adding hardware didn't work eighter.

It's more like something in the system which "thinks" to much in "circles".
I would like to erase "deeply within the system" (not just the average user visible side) all former try outs and then try again.

Does that help to get some more ideas?

best regards,
Erik