Not able to connect to SQL Server 2008

Although I've tried several different combinations, I have not been able to establish a connection to a SQL server on my laptop. I've had similar problems with other softwares mostly related to the fact that my server runs as a named instance (namely: MACHINENAME\SQLSERVER). May this be the case? I am trying to connect through the TCP/IP channel and yes, SQL server is configured for accepting any form of TCP/IP connection (I have successfully connected from ADONET, JDBC, etc.) Any suggestions? Many thanks!

I have a local installed MS SQL 2008 and Heidi connects fine to it via named pipe (not TCP!), using hostname "ANSGAR-PC\SQLEXPRESS" and Windows authentication.

Thanks anse. Tried it and it worked. I hadn't tried it before as I had inactivated named pipes (on the grounds of reducing, as much as possible, services running in my computer). But if this turns out to be the only manner of communication I guess I've no other way out.