Please educate me - PC related

OK, I have a pc that's several years old, running on XP.

I just purchased a low-cost Canon printer (IP2600) and a 2.0 USB cord and cannot complete the installation.

XP recognizes the plug-n-play software, but the installation process halts with on onscreen notation (within the Canon display window) that the "Printer cannot be found - Check the connection".

Hardware, software????

Recommendations for a fix?

Preferably not the smart-butt variety.

FIrst off, go to the Canon site and get the latest version of the driver. Even if you just bought it new, it probably came with older drivers. Follow the destructions for the drivers, which are usually "run this install ap with the cable disconnected." Then you hook the cable up and see what happens.

I'll just say,

return the Canon,

Buy an HP

Make sure XP is up to date (Service Pack 3)

I would then try plugging the printer into the machine and powering the printer up. XP should recognize the printer and try to find and install drivers for it. Cancel out of those windows because Canon has their own driver installation deal. If Windows doesn't try to install the device, there is something wrong with the device, the cable or your USB ports (or window's implementation of the USB driver)

Make sure the printer is connected directly into the USB port, many don't like being run through hubs, etc.

If you suspect the USB port, plug another USB device (that you know works) into that USB port. If that device works, then the port seems to be working.

If you have another computer available to you, you could plug the printer into one of those to see if you get a response. If you do, then there is something funky about the operating system on the initial machine.

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080911200937AANYvyP

http://www.fixya.com/support/t1631631-installation_not_working

http://www.usbman.com/Guides/Cleanup%20Device%20Manager%20Safe%20Mode.htm

http://www.usbman.com/WinME%20USB%20Guide.htm#Known%20Issues

Good Luck,

Thanks for advice, everyone!

I downloaded the driver directly from the mfg. website and then did a modified install from the print software -that much worked.

I cannot print because the "Printer is not responding". All the usb ports are functional so it's looking like a compatibility. Or an opportunity to expand my limited knowledge base.

It looks like a call to tech support for resolution as there are now other issues involved.

Thanks again!