Windows NT Does Not Detect a Three-Button Mouse

Last reviewed: June 23, 1995
Article ID: Q130858
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows NT operating system version 3.1
  • Microsoft Windows NT Advanced Server version 3.1
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.5 and 3.51
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.5 and 3.51

SYMPTOMS

After you install a three-button mouse and its driver and restart Windows NT, you may not be able to use all three buttons of the mouse.

CAUSE

By default, Windows NT configures all mice as a two-button mouse in the registry.

RESOLUTION

To correct this problem, you must modify the Windows NT Registry.

WARNING: Using Registry Editor incorrectly can cause serious, system-wide problems that may require you to reinstall Windows NT to correct them. Microsoft cannot guarantee that any problems resulting from the use of Registry Editor can be solved. Use this tool at your own risk.

  1. Start Registry Editor and go to the following subkey:

          HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services
    
             \<mouse type>\Parameters
    
    

  2. Highlight the following entry: NumberOfButtons

  3. From the Edit menu, select DWORD.

  4. Change the Data value to 3. Choose OK.

  5. Exit Registry Editor.

  6. Shut down and restart Windows NT.


KBCategory: kbhw
KBSubcategory: nthw ntregistry
Additional reference words: prodnt 3.10 3.50 3.51


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Last reviewed: June 23, 1995
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