[mashimo]

SOLUTION

Maybe :?

Trawling through Microsoft suport site. I have found that there is a problem with SP2 used on XP Pro/Home and the detection of USB devices. It doesnt look like there is a general rule as to what devices its having problems with, as it can be anything.

There is a 'Hotfix' available direct from Microsoft. It is still in testing apparently but can be obtained by request. They also advise that this may not solve the problem, and to wait untill the next available SP which will contain a permanent fix to the problem. Which is what I will probably do, as I am sick of this cheap crap. And then just give it to my kid.

Im going out to buy the real deal and not try and save a few quid buying crap like this again.