Need /dev/usb

[Tom George <georgeacct@spininternet.com>]

I am running potato 2.2.12 but I have compiled a 2.4.1 kernel as I would 
like to use my printer (Epson Stylus Color 860) on a usb port. I 
configured the 2.4.1 kernel for a usb printer but there is no /dev/usb 
and MAKEDEV wont make one.  How can I add the usb driver without 
unnecessarily compromising my stable 2.2.12 system? 

(For the record, I am stuck with a windows-only scanner on the parallel 
port.  There is an old X-switch in my junk pile so I could put both the 
printer and the scanner on the parallel port if there is no easy usb 
solution.)