Why Doesn't the Mouse and Keyboard Work In Ubuntu 9.10?
Ubuntu 9.10 is the 11th release of the Ubuntu operating system and can be installed on a variety of computers including desktops and laptops. Although many Ubuntu 9.10 users experience no issues with installing and then using the operating system, you may find that for some reason your keyboard and mouse do not work with Ubuntu 9.10. There are five common causes for problems with the keyboard and mouse in Ubuntu 9.10. By troubleshooting through each potential cause, you can get your mouse and keyboard working again.
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Corrupt Packages
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Ubuntu 9.10 relies on the use of packages for full device and program functionality. Packages may be either software installation files or drivers, such as those that are responsible for the correct function of the mouse and keyboard. Occasionally, the Ubuntu package responsible for the mouse and keyboard functionality can become corrupt, which can cause the mouse and keyboard to stop working. You can resolve this issue by following Ubuntu's instructions for reinstalling packages (see Resources for link).
BIOS Settings
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The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) is built into your computer and controls what hardware is functional with the computer. Your keyboard and mouse may not work in Ubuntu 9.10 if your BIOS is not configured the right way. You can fix this issue by checking and changing your BIOS settings. BIOS can be accessed by pressing either F2, F6, F8 or F10 at the start-up screen depending on your specific computer. From there, select "Hardware" and then check the boxes next to "USB Keyboard Support" and "USB Mouse Support."
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Incompatible Keyboard/Mouse
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Although Ubuntu 9.10 supports a lot of different computer hardware, there are some components that Ubuntu 9.10 does not support. When a piece of hardware is not fully supported by Ubuntu 9.10, the hardware will not function no matter what packages you install to make it work. If your mouse or keyboard is very old or is very new, it's likely that 9.10 doesn't support it and this is why it won't work. You can contact Ubuntu to check if 9.10 supports your specific hardware; if it does not you may need to buy a keyboard and mouse that are compatible.
Other Causes
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Your mouse and keyboard may not work in Ubuntu 9.10 due to an installation error. Installation errors may occur either due to a corrupt Ubuntu 9.10 installation disc or due to selecting the incorrect mouse/keyboard configuration. In either case, the easiest solution is to reinstall Ubuntu 9.10 and make sure you are selecting the correct settings for your mouse/keyboard. Your keyboard and mouse may also stop working due to a temporary issue. You can fix the problem in this case by either restarting the computer or unplugging and then plugging back in the mouse and the keyboard.
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