My Windows XP computer fails to install a driver when using LabQuest Viewer software with a LabQuest 2 via USB connection.

This information pertains to LabQuest 2.
If you have an original LabQuest, see Original LabQuest Troubleshooting and FAQs (Full List)

This is a Windows XP issue only.

When trying to use the LabQuest Viewer software with a LabQuest 2 connected via USB, a driver will be needed. To install the driver, ensure your computer has internet access. Check that LabQuest 2 is set to use the Viewer over USB, and then connect LabQuest 2 to the computer. Windows will start the found new hardware wizard, and may ask you if it should connect to Windows Update.

Select one of the "Yes" options. (If you don't see that dialog, then someone already selected "Yes, now and every time I connect a device." on this computer once.) Then it will prompt you if you'd like to install the software automatically or from a specific location.

Choose "Install the software automatically (Recommended)" (the default.)

Windows will search for a few minutes and then will install the drivers.

If this doesn't work, see
TIL 2705: How do I install a driver for LabQuest Viewer software to enable communication with LabQuest 2 via USB?

Note 1: If the driver install takes a particularly long time, (including the time it takes you to read this document,) it can result in the LabQuest 2 thinking that the network connection has failed. You may need to reboot the LabQuest 2 to make the connection work again, (Choose Home|System|Reboot.) This is a one time issue that will only happen the first time you install the USB network drivers.

Note 2: If you do not see the Found New Hardware Wizard when you plug in the LabQuest 2, (or if you saw it once, and now don't see it again,) go into the Device Manager and right click on the "RNDIS/Ethernet Gadget" device, (it will show up with a Question Mark icon,) and choose "Update Driver." The full steps for that are similar to handling other drivers:
TIL 2501: Are the device drivers installed correctly? (For Windows with LabPro, original LabQuest and LabQuest Mini)