You're right Stilleto this thing is a normal win7 component according to more researches. Fortunately you've stopped my panic as I was contemplating nasty options regarding my computer. And now that I have time to think clearly about it it's becoming clear that an axe wouldn't have helped. Obviously I need a good healthy dose of fresh air before doing anything else. I'll wipe my system clean tomorrow and will make a fresh start. I hope I'd be able to report a success a little bit later. Have a nice day and thanks for your help folks.