I looked through the references you gave.
Everything seems to conform Firefox doesn't know about Java - until :-
http://gmal.dk/browserspy - which reports :-
Java enabled Yes
Java supported Yes - version 1.6.0_11
Java version Yes - version 1.6.0_07, 1.6.0_11
Java using object and applet tag
Java using the applet tag
There are no entries opposite the last two lines
The item that refers to
http://forums.mozill...ic.php?t=583520 baffles me - I don't understand it - wonder if it might be relevant. If it comes to removing plugins I'd need talking through the procedure.
I don't have ZoneAlarm, NoScript or Adblock. I do have the Yahoo toolbar.
Configuring Jave - yes, both IE and Mozilla Family are ticked - tho the Microsoft Internet Explorer entry is grey-ed out (?)
And yes, I used the same TEST PAGE as you.
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Having worked through your reply so far, I'll send this email, and try Firefox Safe Mode wafer I've closed down, and reopened Firefox in Safe Mode. If the situation changes (i.e. Java is recognised) I'll add another reply.