printer problem

[robnic]

i know this should be easy but i can not install a new printer onto my laptop,its got a usb lead and runs on xp but when trying to install it just keeps searching and does not find anything,am i really stupid?

[query]

With most USB printers, you must install the drivers before you connect the printer - if you did not do this, uninstall the drivers, disconnect the printer, reboot, install the drivers (preferably from the website of the printer manufacturer, not the CD, which is often out of date).  Then reconnect the printer.