Question : Problem: OfficeJet G85 Scanner Suddenly 'Unknown'

Last week, after changing nothing at all (as far as I know) to my system, it was suddenly impossible to scan. All programs capable of scanner reported the scanner could not be found. It is part of a G85 all-in-one, and faxing and printing still work without any problems.

Removing, cleaning, rebooting and reinstalling do not solve the problem.

Now, a week later, I find that the problem extends to my digital camera as well. When I connect that, I hear the familiar ding-dong of a connecting USB device but the 'Removeable Drive' does not appear, nor does the 'Safely remove hardware' icon in system tray.

Three other USB devices (Apacer memory stick, Asus sync cradle and Logitech optical mouse) continue to function with no problems whatsoever.

What could be the problem here?

The system: WinXPpro, PIII, 768MB, 40GB, everything fully updated.

Answer : Problem: OfficeJet G85 Scanner Suddenly 'Unknown'

you can try running sfc /scannow from the run box first, before reinstalling completely.
I agree that it is not a bad idea to do a fresh install, if you get more problems though.