Not aufait with progging cards, but I suppose first thing is to check that your com port is detected/working correctly. I assume your programmer connects by serial cable to the com port...
First off open device manager, scroll down list to Ports (COM & LPT), hit plus sign, you have a com port listed? COM 1? Right click properties, on the port settings tab check the settings match what your programmer will work with (normally 9600bps speed, 8 data bits, No parity, 1 stop bit & no flow control), try clicking restore defaults if not sure.
Make sure your proggy software is looking to the correct com port? Or does it search?
You could try setting it to another port number, on the port settings tab, advanced, change com port...
Have fun