cannot find necessary software

[Wingman]

USB-6229. When I plug it in, XP sees it and brings up the dialog correctly. I choose Install Automatically. After some grunting and groaning, teminates with "the hardware was not installed because the wizard cannot find the necessary software. Note: I did have a legacy PCI board, it has been physically removed. I had installed DAQmx 9.0 from the web, uninstalled it and all other NI software and installed 8.8 from the CD that came with the device. This is a Dell Optiplex 210L which has given me problems before with plug-and-play, but the normal issue is that it installs the driver but subsequently malfunctions.

What files/registry settings can I look for? 

[AnalogKid2DigitalMan]

Was the 6229 disconnected from the PC when 8.8 was installed? Typically NI recommends installing the drivers firts, and then the hardware.

-AK2DM

[Wingman]

Good thought, but yes it was disconnected

[EEsRULEtheWORLD]

Hi, Wingman.

Has this device ever worked on any other computer?  There may be an issue with the EEPROM on the device.

If this device does work on other computers, try updating to DAQmx 9.0 online.  There is a chance that the DVDs you're installing from have become corrupted.

Let me know how this works out for you.  I hope you're having a great day!

[Wingman]

Oh never mind. Found it. I just happened to uninstall one of our own software products and re-boot, and voilà. I didnt even need to instigate an install or deal with any dialogs. It took care of itself during the reboot while I wasnt looking. 

PS. The Dell Optiplex remains under investigation as a possible accomplice.