I suspect that your network settings under Windows 2000 are not correct. I have used Windows 2000 and FieldPoint Explorer extensively connected both to corporate networks and in stand-alone operation with a local hub with FP-1600's and FP-20XX's. I suggest that you start off by verifying your network settings. You can also hook up a different computer (set for a static IP address) to the Windows 2000 computer via the crossover cable and see if you are able to ping the second computer from the Windows 2000 computer. Also, since you are not on a network, make sure you are not set-up for DHCP and have configured a static IP address and an appropriate subnet mask.
Regards,
Aaron
LabVIEW Champion, CLA, CPI