Mouse won't work

[ckamin]

it's a PS/2 mouse,
I tried the code listed here

Did you type it at the "Boot:_" prompt on the start up splash screen? The syntax is important also. It may very well be that you have one of those Motherboards that does not play well with PS/2 mice and Linux. I might suggest that you try another type/brand of PS/2 mouse, or try using a USB mouse and see what happens.

You might try some of the other "Cheat Codes", such as "failsafe" or "noapm", etc. That would disable certain functions on startup that may have an effect on your concern. Some information and a list of codes can be found at the following link: http://www.knoppix.net/wiki/Cheat_Codes

I see that a BIOS update is suggested if that doesn't work, but (being new to this) I don't know where exactly to get the right update to fix this problem or how to install it.

Support for your system can be found at the following location: http://www.emachines.com/support/pro...es&model=W3050

They do not appear to have a Bios update listed for your system. I would try to contact them and see if they might have a solution. The contact information is provided at the above link. They can instruct you on how to update the bios if it is required. You need to be careful and follow the directions. An incorrect bios flash can render a system unbootable. It is a simple proceedure, but certain precautions should be taken. I plug the systems into an uninteruptable power supply so there will be no interruption of power. Be careful not to shut down the system before it is successful.

I am assuming that you are using the latest version of Knoppix which is 4.0.2. If you are using something quite a bit older, it might be worth trying the current version.

Let us know how you make out. Good Luck!