Add/Remove Hardware
 

Sometimes recently when I switch on the "Add/Remove Hardware" icon in the bottom right fails to appear. Usually restarting will get it back but is there an easier way?
Windows XP Pro, Dell Lattitude D810 with a Dell docking station.
Thanks for any obvious ideas.

I think that you are speaking of the "Safely Remove Hardware" icon in the System Tray / Notification Area.

This is only present when there is a USB device plugged in.

If the device is not recognised it won't appear. If the USB device is connected to the docking station, it's possible that there's a poor connection between the device and the DS or the DS and the laptop.

It can frequently go AWOL, though, so your best bet is to google "Safely Remove Hardware" icon missing and select the solutions that suit your circumstances.

SD

Thanks for the info. Why didn't I think of googling it right away.
I had not got the correct wording - I had memorised it incorrectly as it was missing.
Restart sloved the problem.
Yes I think then memory stick that is plugged into the docking station may have some sort of loose connection so it is not recognised on startup. Anyway I now have an alternative from the google query.