network problem

Ive just installed v4.1.1 off the cd onto 20 networked pcs running windows 2000 pro. The program runs OK but after connecting my CH1040 circuit (with 08m chip)to the COM1 the downloading fails, the problem being 'Error-Hardware not found'. Its works fine on my laptop also running win2000 but not on the network. Ive tried COM 2. Its fails under student login and administrator. The pc are Gateway E-3400 PIIIs
Any suggestions?

Ive sorted it out. Process of elimination really. I'm powering the circuit using 2 x AAA cells. When I upped it to three cells its OK. Funny that it works OK with my laptop. Ive still a problem though, Ive got 90 pupils circuits all wired up to 2xAAA battery packs! I'll have to order some more packs.

See page 15 of the picaxe manual (part 1 getting started)