Problem setting up 2nd wireless connection

First, I have an Actiontec R3010UW wireless router, connected to an NTL cable modem. The router currently has an ethernet connection to my desktop PC,(Windows XP) and I have wireless access to my laptop (Windows XP) via a USB 802.11b Wireless network adapter.

I have just acquired a second, identical (and working) adapter. I want to be able to disconnect the ethernet connection from the desktop, and have wireless connection via the second adapter. However, when I plug the adapter in, Windows recognises new hardware, but is unable to find any drivers for it, even though the Actiontec disc is in the drive.

I

It is usual for you to install the drivers for a USB device before connecting it.

I suspect what has happened is that you have an 'unknown device' in your Windows device manager.

Check device manager for any yellow exclamation marks, delete this device, remove the USB adapter and install the drivers. Only reconnect the USB adapter when told to by the installation program.

With regard to your move from cable to ADSL is you are getting a 'free' modem from an ISP it will almost certainly be a USB modem and you won't be able to connect it to your router. What exactly are you being provided and by whom?

do you get the same problem if you take the one out of the laptop and try it in the PC?

Cox377. Yes. The 2 adapters appear identical, and the same problem occurs with either.

Jon. I've tried your suggestions. There were no yellow exclamation marks, and all the USB ports appear to be working OK. I did as you suggested, but the installation software still failed to install the adapter.
HOWEVER, further to your second query, I'm going with Force9 (Plusnet). I know, I know..I suspect that the freebie modem will indeed be a USB one, and yes, there is no facility to connect USB to the existing router.
Therefore, I think that I'll have to put up with a trailing wire to start with, but buy a wireless router/modem to replace the modem asap. Is the Netgear DG834G any good. If not, can you suggest any reasonably low-cost alternatives?

By the way Jon, you may remember me as 'Chris from Pensions'. Retired now. Does Bod still work for you? If so, give him my regards.

I've sent you a PM...

The DG834G has served very well in many cases - I've installed a few myself!