Windows XP does not detect my new device

Cause:  

If you attach a new device to your computer and Windows XP does not detect and automatically install the new device, there are several different possible solutions. First, you need to carefully check the device to make sure you have plugged it into the correct port. Devices usually work with some type of port found on the back (or even the front) of your computer. Common examples are parallel ports (printers), serial ports (mice, keyboards, modems, and so on), and USB ports (for all kinds of devices). Some devices even work with infrared wireless ports (called IrDA ports), if your computer has one. The trick is simply this: 

• You have to plug the device into the right port in order for it to work, so check the device documentation to make sure you have it hooked up correctly before going any further.

• Once you are sure that the device is attached correctly, restart the computer. Even though Windows XP can usually detect devices without a reboot, the reboot may help get the device installed. If this doesn’t help, do the following:

1.  Check the device’s documentation for instructions. If a device came with a CD or floppy disk, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it.
   
2.  Check the HCL
   
3.  If both of these options do not help, use the following Pain Killer.

To install a device manually, follow these steps:

1. Log on with an administrator account.

2. Ensure that the device is turned on and working.

Note: The following steps assume you are using the Classic view of Control Panel. If you are not sure if you are using the Classic view of Control Panel, click Start--> Control Panel. In the left window pane--> click the Switch to Classic View option.

3. Click Start--> Control Panel--> Add Hardware.

4. The Add Hardware Wizard appears. Click Next on the Welcome screen.

5. Windows XP begins a search for any new hardware. If it finds the hardware, it will then install it. If not, a window appears, asking if you have connected the hardware, Make sure the hardware is connected to the computer correctly and click Next.

6. Windows XP then provides you a list of hardware that is installed on your computer. Scroll to the bottom of the list and select Add a New Hardware Device--> Click Next.

7. In the What Do You Want the Wizard to Do screen--> choose the Search For and Install the Hardware Automatically option and click Next. Windows XP will then perform an exhaustive system search.

8. If the hardware is still not found, Windows tells you that you can select the hardware from a list--> Click Next.

9. In the provided list, select the type of hardware device that you want to install and click Next.

10. If you choose to install a scanner, printer, or modem, a different wizard may appear to help you; just follow the steps. For other devices, you’ll see a selection window, Choose the manufacturer and the device and click
Next. If you have an installation CD or floppy disk from the manufacturer, you can use it here by clicking the Have Disk button and following the instructions.

11. Click Next. Windows XP will install the software for your hardware device.

12. Click Finish when the installation is complete.

Tip: Although the Add Hardware Wizard is very helpful, you should always check the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for installation; this is your first line of defense. If the device you are installing is new, do not hesitate to call the manufacturer’s help line for assistance. Some devices, such as some USB devices, require certain drivers and utilities before ever plugging the device into the port. So, check the documentation carefully for instructions.