[wolfworx]

Recently needed to attach a mouse to a system with no PS2 Mouse Port. I had a PS2 mouse and a PS2 to 9 hole D serial adapter, but it didn't work. I finally found a serial mouse and got the job done but... I wondered.

Is it possible to use a PS2 mouse through a serial port? I mean, I have a "dog-bone" adapter, what else could it be used for? Also, KVM cables (for using one keyboard, mouse and monitor with multiple computers) use PS2 mouse connections and would be a problem connecting to a computer that only uses a serial mouse.

Anyone have a thought or two on the matter?

 

[dustyjay]

In a lot of these cases you have to use an adapter that was made for use with the particular mouse you are using. Such as an adapter that comes with a M$ PS2 mouse will not work with a Logitec mouse and vise versa. Why I don't know! That is just the way it is I guess. I have run into this problem several times in the past.

 

[kiwiguy]

I agree with dustyjay, that it depends on the mouse.

Some are made (or were made) for serial or PS2 and supplied with an adapter. However that is an adapter for that mouse type only, and other PS2 mice will probably not work with it.

Its totally dependent on power consumption, signal levels and the internal design of the electronics.

Exactly the same issues arise with PS2 and USB mouse adapters.

 

[wolfworx]

Further on problems with KVM connections, a friend just set up two computers with single monitor, Keyboard and mouse. The Keyboard of one computer was USB and the KVM was PS2. He would like to use the USB Keyboard but is probably SOL. I tried two adapters that had the proper gender, but neither worked. He had to use his old PS2 keyboard. Oh well, at least he has more desk space and can use his 20" LCD monitor on both computers.