Skype 3.4 will work fine with Microsoft Vista using a headset and microphone plugged into a sound card, but when trying to install a USB Skype Phone you may encounter a problem with the audio driver. If you receive this message "This device cannot start. (Code 10)" then the following procedure should allow you to connect your Skype phone.
First you need a copy of USBAUDIO.sys from an XP computer. Plugging your Skype phone into an XP computer will create this. You will find it in the C:\Windows\System32\Drivers directory. Otherwise you can download a copy from here. Unfortunately, when plugging the Skype phone into your Vista machine it has created its own copy of usbaudio.sys which will prevent you copying the XP version over the top. Vista will not allow you to delete files in the Driver directory even when logged in as Administrator. There is a solution though. You are recommended to make a system backup before attempting this.
1. Type cmd in the 'Start Search' menu box and then hit the Ctrl+Shift+Enter key combination. This will open an Administrator command window.
2. Type takeown/f C:\windows\system32\drivers\usbaudio.sys {this will allow you to take ownership of the file}
3. type cacls C:\windows\system32\drivers\usbaudio.sys /G username:F {this gives you full control rights. substitute username with your login username. Answer yes when asked are you sure?}
4. Delete the file usbaudio.sys. You can then copy the XP file into the directory.
Your USB Skype Phone should now work.
Tony Chandler
05 December 2007