usb keyboard fails during win xp reinstall

I have a PS/2 keyboard but there is no input for it, only USB. I tried a USB to PS/2 converter but no luck.

My Dell with XP is 7 years old now and has two PS/2 ports, one for the keyboard and one for the mouse.

My new PC, Alienware, has one PS/2 port.

I don't think I've ever seen a Windows capable computer without a PS/2 port.

On some of these older systems the BIOS may support USB keyboards, so look for a setting to enable in this system's BIOS.

Mark

If you post the make and model we save posts as the usual that I use can be dismissed as we discover what the machine is made from.

Also this may be one of those new Vista or later only machines that you can't install XP on. It would be a shame to learn that later and waste everyone's time.

--> Try this. In the BIOS try all the settings of USB compatibility or 1.x modes and if there is any USB KEYBOARD SUPPORT try that too.

Remember that without make, model or better yet links to the machine under discussion, some ideas may not apply but you'll read them.
Bob

I know this is a really weird situation. It's a Dell Dimension E310

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/SYSTEMS/dim3100/en/sm/about0.htm#wp1072147

with Win XP home and I promise there's no PS/2 port any where. Also, I have combed through all BIOS and Setup setting for a fix but nothing keeps the USB enabled through that stage of the Reinstall process. I have also updated all drivers and the BIOS.

I remember that one. I had to use the Dell issued USB keyboard. Also had to use the Dell issued XP install CD.

You are using those?

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim3100/en/sm/specs0.htm even though doesn't list it looks like what the new machines that don't support XP look like.

Did this come with XP or what OS?
Bob

Yes, I am using all the original Dell Dimension E310 equipment it came with with the Dell XP reinstall CD and yes it did come preloaded with XP.

Use it's set to defaults options and plug the Dell USB keyboard into the rear USB port.

Good luck,
Bob

Thanks for that link and images of your Dell, and I stand corrected.

I hadn't realised Dell shipped any of their earlier computers without any PS/2 port.

My apologies for doubting you.

Mark

Their MUST be a way to reinstall the OS using their CD or their recovery partition and their keyboard. Note the "their" might be an essential part of the story.

Kees