Installer halts loading 'usb-storage' module

I've just downloaded Ubuntu 7.04 and burned it to CD. When booting from the CD, the splash loading screen appears for a short while. Then the computer goes into text mode and begins repeating the message: "hub 2-3:1.0: Cannot enable port 2. Maybe the USB cable is bad?"

After repeating this message for several minutes, the system finally boots. However, when installation is initiated, the installer search for hardware for some time and then halts at a module it calls 'usb-storage'. The computer doesn't freeze up but installation can't proceed.

Prior to downloading the Ubuntu 7.04 release version, I had a well-functioning copy of the Feisty beta running on the computer. I've never had trouble starting up the beta. After trying the release installer, however, attempting to boot from the beta partion also produce the message above. Windows XP, running on another partion, has reported no problems whatsoever. The Ubuntu installer has destroyed the MBR, however, so I can't boot that partion either.

How can I get past loading this 'usb-storage' module in the Ubuntu installer? Thanks in advance.