Using the original prs-500 connect CD did not work to restore the unit. I'm getting "USB initilization" errors from the connect software.
I am going to send the unit to Sony as part of their ePub update procedure. During that update, they may fix it themselves at no cost to me. Worth a shot, since the next place for my reader is the trash, or getting credit towards the pocket (small, no SD

) or the touch (can't justify the cost).
Thanks again for the suggestions.