I have an older Dell laptop with an SD slot. Like many others, it will not take the new high capacity SD cards. The hardware has a 2GB limit. I also can't read other cards. I have a big multi-card reader on my docking port at home. So, I went hunting. I came up with a Targus brand adapter. It reads the HC cards without any drivers. It is a 32 in 1 reader with a USB cord. Very small - about the size of a large matchbook. Uses a standard mini usb plug like a lot of other items.
Targus TGR-CRD25
Wal Mart for $12.95
It also reads the MMC and XD cards (Like in your camera PONCH)
JB