Removing the upper filters has always worked for me in the past (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314060) even though it says for Windows 7 use the built in troubleshooter. As far as the drive disappearing, that is ALSO a Windows 7 "feature" that doesn't work right even if you disable it (Windows Explorer, Tools, Folder Options, View, Uncheck "Hide Empty Drives in the Computer Folder) and may or may not be related to the problem. The number one thing to try to fix it, especially on an HP Drive is to download the latest Firmware for it and flash it.....It will update any old compatibility issues and sometime add new features. Good luck....... Wazz