computer running vista does not detect any printer

If this is a new install I recommend using the installation cd that came with the printer. If it didnt come with one go to the hp website and download the drivers for it. Run the setup and your computer should be configured to print.

If this however still dont work and it does not recognize the printer. Your usb might not be working or the driver is not installed correctly on the machine. Try a different usb and also use windows update to get any drivers that u might need.

If you are unable to get the driver for the usb from Microsoft Update go to the companies website of the desktop (dell, hp, acer, etc) and look up your model number and find the drivers and download