"Paul" wrote in message
news
Of course, picking up another tray card reader would
be slightly easier.

I've already tried another multi-format card reader (maybe the same
make/model) from another PC that I acquired. For a while I didn't have a
problem but lately it's started to display the same symptoms: fine after a
reboot, but sooner or later, the act of unplugging the card stops the reader
from reading any other cards until reboot or logout/login.

I might admit defeat and buy an external USB SD card reader.