usb isn't better it's not as stable and uses cpu power, don't understand why you would have any problem being " FXP'ed" what problem are u haveing exatly(might be better to start another thread)

Thanks again for the advice. I'll try reinstalling the drivers and move the NIC to another slot tonight to see if that helps.

Is it necessary to remove the software drivers/network allocations for the USB, since the TCP/IP type appears to be recognised from boot-up?

THANKS TO ALL.
Disabled USB in "this hardware profile" under control panel /network settings. Powered off modem. Swapped cables. Powered on modem. After modem reboot lights steady, rebooted PC with NIC in another slot. All systems go. D/L speed tests still around the right level - 600 for my service.

No other tests yet, but it looks like this forum will be as good as the old nthellworld.com and I have a spare USB port ...

glad to hear u got it sorted, with any luck this forum should be better without ntl's boot hanging over it

Darkangel - "better without ntl's boot hanging over it"

So true, O King. See you around the liberated forums.