Robert,

Thank you.

I'm using an 18F2550, since it's only 28 pins. Yes, I understand that it cannot be a USB host, which is why I am at a loss. What I am doing right now with somewhat positive results is programming for a keyboard device, then plugging the straight-wiring the keyboard to the host, then pulling power and data taps to the PIC. All is recognizing fine, except am working on finding the right host driver for this funky keyboard.

Going to catch a train to Akihabara in a few minutes to pickup a generic USB keyboard and some other stuff.