Can't Connect USB printer

[Guest]

I have had a Lexmark printer on my 8100 for a few years. No problems.
Recently, I tried to move up to a new printer. I could not install.

Each installation hangs at the same place. In the middle of the
manufacturer's install software, when you plug in the printer to the USB, you
must exit the Windows new hardware wizard multiple times. The
manufacturer's install just dies.

Tried multiple installs/uninstalls with 3 printers, 2 lexmark and one hp.
Tried different USB ports and different cables. Same USB ports work for
ipod, wireless, camera, etc. Drivers just do not install.

I think the previous uninstalls did not work, but I have uninstalled all
printers using add/remove if the manufacturer's uninstall is not in "all
programs"

Dell 8100
Windows XP sp 2.

 

[Cari \(MS-MVP\)]

How to correctly uninstall and reinstall:
http://www.coribright.com/windows/Article One.htm

How to completely blitz all traces of previous printers:
http://members.shaw.ca/bsanders/CleanPrinterDrivers.htm

 

[Guest]

Cari,

Thanks. I already found these and went through them including utility and
lexmark fix. Same problem. Should I reinstall or repair XP?
Grasping at straws now.

 

[GTS]

You might also check that there are no hidden devices left from the printer
install/uninstall actions, which occasionally causes this problem. In Device
Manger select Show Hidden Devices under the View menu and see if any printer
related hidden items are shown. If so, remove them.

 

[Guest]

Still stuck, uninstalled everything, cleaned registry, etc.