So I was attempting to do a Windows XP repair on this Dell Optiplex and everything goes fine until it starts the second part of the repair process where it reboots and then checks for drivers, etc. When I get to this spot my keyboard and mouse do not work so I can't get past the driver loading section nor the enter product key part of the repair. The problem is that the Dell in its infinite wisdom only put USB ports on the computer so there are not PS2 ports for a standard keyboard and mouse. So I am stuck using only the USB keyboard and mouse and neither of those work at this part of the repair. I'm assuming it's because the drivers are not loaded for these devices. So now I'm stuck halfway through the repair process and cannot get any further. Is there a way to get at least the keyboard to work? Or is there a way to stop the repair and just boot into windows again? Thanks for any help.

go into the Bios and check to see that the usb keyboard is set properly. The drivers for the USB are installed as well as PS2 unless you are using an installation prior to SP2 In reference to 11/05/2008 "So this is how liberty dies. With thunderous applause." - George Lucas