USB Logitech trackball mouse makes Slack 10.1 hang on boot
 

I have just installed Slackware 10.1 onto my Medion MD42792 laptop. The install (eventually) worked out fin, and I can use LiLo to access Linux and login as root.

THE PROBLEM: If I have my USB Logitech trackball mouse plugged in, the boot hangs (unless I feed the kernel 'nousb'). Why is that?

Any help, much appreciated...

I would recommend that you boot with 'nohotplug' instead of 'nousb'.

Also, since you have a laptop, I will recommend upgrading to kernel 2.6. It will fix your usb problem and power management. Follow the 2.6 kernel compile guide in this forum. Setting all the options in the config step can be a daunting task for a newbie but the only way to learn is to do it. If you are unsure about an option, google around, you will find something.

Since you are using usb2 port for trackball you can go into BIOS and turn off legacy usb support to see if that helps. So touchpad as PS/2 and Logitec with IMP/2..At least bareacpi kernel should do well with your lappy's acpi needs. Then while using your SW lappy you have time to investigate what 2.6x kernel will support your hw best. Pat's 2.6.13 and 2.6.14x kernel .config files available at SW10.2 dl site under kernel/testing can serve as reference.
Compare this http://staschke.de/linux/md5400-eng.html with your lappy setup. Happy slacking:)

Thanks - I compiled/installed 2.6.10 and USB works just great.