[LPS]

I've got what I believe is a PC dilemma here, and want somebody's recommendation as to where to go from here to make this stuff work. Am trying to set up to get started, and can't seem to make the things talk to each other.
What I want to do: Record a two-track demo: a vocal with a keyboard accompaniment.

Here's the equipment I have:Two PCs: One is a 1999 Gateway w/Windows XP OS. USB 1.1 port only.
Second is a new Compaq Presario w/Vista Home Basic, 64-bit Athlon. Has 4 USB 2.0 ports.

Software is Audacity because I have no cash to put out yet and just need something simple to learn on.

Audio interface is M-Audio FastTrack Ultra. (Sold to me by the Guitar Center Proaudio man, who assured me it would work with my other stuff.)

Mic is a Shure SM58. Studio headphones AKG K240. One amp to serve as monitor, which is an old Roland KC-300. Or else the only other choices I have are the PC Labtecs or a set of Edifier R18 Multimedia speakers. Don't know if they would work or not, as I haven't got far enough to hook them up yet.

Here's my problem: After successfully installing Audacity on both PCs, I'm unable to get M-Audio up and running on either one. I've read the manuals, gone online for drivers/information, and installed drivers on both. The Gateway just dumps the program altogether when rebooted. The Compaq loses the driver each time it's restarted, so I go online and download the Vista 32-bit driver because the M-Audio website says it doesn't support Vista 64-bit, only 32-bit.

I think what I need is a decent used PC with Windows XP or something like that. Bear in mind the budget is broke here. Must beg, borrow or steal, but I need to know what to go for first.

Suggestions appreciated,
LPS