USB headset not used automatically

On my desktop computer, when I attach a USB headset I hear a recognition
tone and the headset gets configured automatically as the default device for
sound playback and sound recording. I can verify this in the "Sounds and
Audio Devices Properties" control panel the next time it is opened.
However, on two portable computers the default devices don't get changed,
even though I hear the same recognition tone when the headset is attached,
the headset is listed as a choice for both playback and recording, and
choosing the headset manually sets the device as the default.

Is there some way to get the headset to be used automatically, as occurs on
the desktop computer? It is a bother to plug in a headset and then need to
go setting audio properties, particularly when answering a Skype call or
listening on music when suddenly there is other sound in the room.

All three computers are running Windows XP with all updates.