How to install Windows when the usb mouse is not detected

I thought that I had asked this question before but after a search I could not find a similar post.

Also as it seems to be a hardware related issue
9even though the problem occurred during Windows installation) I posted it in this forum.

Recently when I decided to rebuild my PC (format C: drive and reinstall Windows XP Pro) I found that during the Windows installation I could NOT navigate any of the installation screens with my usb mouse or usb keyboard (to select language, time zone etc etc). And even after Windows was fully installed and booted up for the first time my usb mouse and keyboard would not work. I then unplugged them and plugged them in again and then Windows detected a change in hardware (usb mouse found - now installing etc).
I am wondering why the installation did not detect my usb mouse and keyboard automatically at the point where Windows searches for hardware. The same happened with my usb keyboard.
For those who wonder how I got through the installation procedure I ended up 'staggering' through it after plugging in an old PS2 keyboard.

 

Anything to do with BIOS settings?
My Phoenix Award BIOS on one comp has USB Controller & USB Keyboard Support under Integrated Peripherals. Neil.

 

All USB controllers and functions are ENABLED in the Bios.
Remember that Windows did recognise my usb mouse and keyboard but ONLY after I disconnected them and then plugged them back in.

 

There probably is an answer to your query, but I haven't experienced it = yet.
I just did a Format on a spare HD yeterday and installed 98SE and had no problems. Neil.

 

If it is the Gigabyte motherboard in your WindowsBBS profile, try checking the FAQs for your motherboard at the Gigabyte website.

 

These are the only USB settings in the Bios and what I have them set to
USB 1.0 Controller Enabled
USB 2.0 Controller Enabled
USB Mouse Function Enabled
USB Storage Function Enabled

Once again I cannot see how these are affecting what happened as both devices (mouse and keyboard) started to work (within Windows) AFTER I disconnected them and then plugged them in again (Windows then detected them). Why didn't Windows detect them automatically during Windows installation (where it searches for connected hardware)?