Registry Error, Device Manger is Blank, USB Stopped working.

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.hardware (More info?)

About a week ago, there was a registry error when starting up my computer. I
proceeded in safe mode, but could not detect the problem. Later, I noticed
the local networking icon missing in Network Connection and the USB (all) and
parallel connections had stopped working. However, the network (internet
card) connection and CD/DVD works. When I try to access the Device Manger,
the panel opens but does not show anything in it. I attempted a System
Restore but it failed no matter which date I choose. The Microsoft Knowledge
base only addresses updating or removing drivers with a working Device Manger
and does not indicate how to repair it . Is there a way to restore the Device
Manger or must I reload WinXP? I would appreciate any help.

Thanks, Joanne

Dell 4550, 2.6 GH, 1 GB Memory, WinXP, SP2 (installed this 2 weeks ago with
no problems)