I can only suggest you try using an externally powered USB hub with your laptop.

There is a patch from windows I think, which can block the error from coming up and allow you to use the device.  I had that problem, but I couldnt fix it like that because it was actually the plastic inside the usb port which had come off, and im not gonna pay hundreds just to have that replaced.

Had my USB's pooch out (700m). One stopped working, the other would give me random error/failures. Dell replaced the system board and it works fine again. Is your machine under warranty still? If not, I could suggest a pcmcia usb adaptor, etc.

What kind of warranty did you have anice? Did it cost you anything?

I thank everyone for the comments and suggestions.  Carrying a selfpower USB hub is not a solution for me, and also, I have tried that and it does not solve some of the installation problems - meaning for some reason some of the items are not recognized when plugged into the hub for the first time installation, so I can never get them to install at all.

This is a problem with Dell's design.  I have looked at some of the older messages and this seems to be a common complaint.  I think they either have the USB sensors tol sensitive or ahve their own version of the USB code that makes them trigger sooner.  There is absolutely no reason for a 100ma device o trigger the sensors, even with high inrush current - that should be taken into account.  I ahve not heard of this problem on any other laptop brands, and I do not have that problem with either my Sony or HP laptops or any desk top I have.

Dell should be addressing a fix for this.

My warranty is expired.

SO if Dell reads these - they ahve lost a customer - no more Dell laptops for me and I sure am not recommending them to anyone.

Again, thanks fro everyone's help - I will try and find a software patch for Windows to let Windows ignore the USB warnings.

The repairs didn't cost me a dime. I've got the standard 1 year limited warranty, and type 12 - mail in service 24x7 technical. I didn't opt for the 2 year extention, but I am considering it now...

TedT, it sounds like the 5 volts to your buses may be hosed or intermitent. This could cause devices to simply not get recognized by your machine. You've tried uninstalling the hubs and controllers from the device manager and letting windows redetect/reinstall upon reboot? I heard that solved someones problem (not mine, however). Using a powered external hub isn't going to make a difference if you stick it into broken ports. Again, a work around is getting a PCMCIA (pc card) to USB (such as this D-link one) at http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16815104803. It is cheaper than buying a new laptop. Its a fact of life that stuff breaks on occasion, usually after any warranty has expired. Perhaps some breathing techniques or meditation could get you over this tough period. Heavy drinking also helps sometimes.

-anym.