Ubuntu is 100% your problem then
Ubuntu tracks very little hardware in comparison, and all Linux hardware drivers need to be compiled into the kernel itself. In contrast, a Windows Driver is a DLL with some registry entries. Commands from the driver are sent to the DLL and the DLL interacts with the OS. Completely modular.
Try an older distro for older drivers, OR try a different distro that has compatibility in mind, like Knoppix.
You might also have more luck with Mint, which is basically kubuntu but they don't drink from the free only kool aid. The result is you get closed source codecs and drivers included. For some reason the Ubuntu people forgot that network drivers available only online is about as useful as an empty jerrycan to a stalled car.
