If the PC says 'MassStorage Device Detected' yet it isn't assigned a drive letter, it's possible the usb sockets can't deliver the current to activate the device. Some devices require the external power, other do not.
Plug it in and look at control panel/admin tools/computer management/Disk Management. That shows all drives on the system. If it's there but without a drive letter, assign a drive letter to it, otherwise there is a problem elsewhere, either the device itself (plug it into someone elses pc) or the usb ports.
USB ports are supposed to deliver 1/2 amp at 12volts. Sounds like the phone to me, time for an upgrade to an iPhone for xmas
[edit]
You can also try a bluetooth dongle and get rid of the frigging wires.