Thanks for the links.
As the sun is rising I must retire for the day but I'll be back tomorrow after sunset.
I will read the threads and see if I can detect anything.
You say you get power but does XP recognize any device via the "ding-dong" USB detected?
Are you sure your Plug and Play services are set to automatic?
Have you tried booting the computer with the USB device installed prior to boot?
I assume your keyboard and mouse are both PS/2?
Again I apologize for having to run out at the moment.