Listed hardware doesn't exist

  • Thread starter Thread starter Martin
  • Start date Start date
M

Martin

I've asked for help on this a few days back, and it was
suggested I boot in safe mode and try to remove the
hardware items then. Doesn't help either... gives me the
same message as when I'm in normal mode ie. "failed to
remove device because it is in use". Not possible!

Any ideas

Mart
 
This can happen if hardware is physically yanked from a machine without
uninstalling the drivers/software first. In that situation the last time XP
poled the device it was "in use" and the device is now unable to tell XP
that it is not active.

Sorry to say I am not aware of a neat way to fix the problem. The best way
maybe to install the device physically back into the computer. If your
really lucky the system will detect it and give you the opportunity to do a
correct removal.

The other two possibilities are a "maintenance reinstallation" of XP or the
ultra-cludge method of trying to remove the device from the registry
manually. Neither of which have any assurance of clearing up the issue -
the latter can make a hugh mess.

Sorry for not having a better idea - maybe someone else will.

Good Luck,
Len
 
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