Ubuntu USB installation - detect and mount cd-rom failed

I recently had to reinstall Ubuntu 10.04 Server 64 bit on one of my computers. I did it before, but this time, I could not proceed with the installation at the "detect and mount cd-rom" step. Because this step didn't complete, I couldn't continue the installation (I guess files aren't accessible). A solution is described here. However, it didn't work for me (couldn't mount the usb drive for some reason). I believe the error pertains to Ubuntu 10.04 and 10.10. I downloaded 11.04 and the this error was not there. After the installation screen booted up I noticed my keyboard failed to work. I had to plug it into another usb plug for it to work. I think I figured out why this "cd-rom" issue came about in 10.04 in the first place (I successfully installed it before). Before, I used a usb 2.0 port. This time, I used a usb 3.0 port. I think once the Linux kernel booted up, it failed to see the usb drive anymore. Hence, it was looking for at the cd-rom drive. Note to self: always try multiple usb ports!

UPDATE: I take these comments back. Ubuntu 10.04.3 still doesn't work for me on a different usb port. Weird!