Hi Folks Thanks for your responses.
I am using Win XP release 5.1 with SP1. and a MSI875PNeo motherboard. As i read the docs the Bios USB settings read as foll:
"Set to All Device if you need to use any USB1.1/2.0 device in the operating system that does not support or have any USB1.1/2.2 driver installed, such as DOS and SCO Unix. Set to no mice only if you want to use any USB device other than a usb mouse. Options: Disabled, No Mice, All Device"
The installation disk referred me back to Win XP SP1 which was included in my original XP installation disk.
The MB specs tell me it has 8 USB2 ports.
Thanks again
GG