I've had no problems using USBControl on my N800 connecting to usb sticks, external HD (Mains Powered) and nokia n73 & N95 mobile phones.

When i intilially installed USBControl I had a few problems with it recognising thing, but I worked out its best to:-

1. Open USBControl
2. Click on HOST
3. Now Connect USB Device (If mains powered, ensure powered on before connecting)

If I try to connect the USB decice first and then run USBControl it only works now and then, but most of the time never.

Again, I've been lucky with Python2.5, installed from the repos and update via the xterm, 'sudo gainroot' & 'apt-get upgrade' method.

Oh, out of interest, what files does it say are missing when you try to install Runtime? Can you not just install the missing files from Xterm?