the pc is a generic system, with win xp pro, all drivers etc currently updated. it has 4 usb slots on the back, and has several devices (printer, nokia phone etc) attached, along with the problem device - a replacement mouse (joystick).

for quite a while the system has been running fine. but suddnely the mouse locks up (joystick).

i have tried all the usb ports, i've tried the usb joystick in the ps2 socket, the joystick on another pc (its fine), but when used on this pc no matter which port it regularly locks up.

the only resort is to reboot.. then, it will say "unable to recognise usb device ". the only thing to do is switch off and leave it a while.

any ideas?