Updating Add Hardware Database Not working (not responding) .

My updating hardware database says not responding.
My cd burner will not work, was trying to check the driver, even thou it
says it is working properly, it isn't, I followed the directs from the
Microsoft cd player web site, I removed the cd audio device from media
control devices, rebooted then followed the Add hardware, the 'no I want to
select eh hardware from list' click sound video and game .... this is where
is locks up and says NOT Responding. Nothing will in the Add hardware
control panel. So now I can't get what I removed back....
I disabled zone alarm and have panda as my anti virus.
Any suggestions?
Thanks Sue

I have windowsME and compaq, 4 yr old computer.

I am thinking my computer is spent...... but can't afford a new one