No trace of that putative floppy which John of Kansas reckons I need. I'll probably head on down to PC World to see if they can let me have one - though getting hold of anyone who knows what they are talking about and has the time and inclination to help can be a problem.

Alternatively I could try hunting around on the internet to see if I could download something to do the trick. If I was sure what to be looking for. Typically the label on then drive is hidden, though I can see an identification number 3902C585 - and the receipt just says "40 GB 5400".

Ah well.At least I've now managed to get the PC to recognise my USB hub, and my printer is back on line.