I would uninstall emplode and then re-install with 2.10 which matches the player firmware 2.0 Final. BEFORE trying to use USB to connect with the player, first re-blow 2.0 onto the player with the upgrader over serial. THEN install the USB driver for XP (make sure you use the right one) using the instructions in the README. Without starting up emplode, plug in the player to USB and then power it up. Let it be recognised. When it's recognised, go check the hardware list in the system applet on the control panel to see if it's functioning properly. Finally, start up emplode. While it is starting up the initial search, clcik on OPTIONS. Configure it for serial and USB only initially, even if you want to later connect over ethernet.