When was /dev/gpmdata put into use??

[John Foster <jfoster@augustmail.com>]

I am trying to isolate a problem with my ps2 mouse. The pointer function
does not work in console or xterm. It will cut and paste OK. I have
checked all of the various configurations and read all of the related
docs. I have determined that the problem did not exist prior to
reinstalling my systems from scratch using the current stable debian
2.2r2. I have not noticed the /dev/gpmdata prior to this install. I have
alwasy used /dev/psaux for both XF86Setup and for gpmconfig. The docs
say to use /dev/gpmdata for XF86Setup and /dev/mouse or /dev/psaux for
gpmconfig. I am certain that the hardware is OK. I want to try an older
version of gpm to see if the problem goes away. Anyone know where I can
download a slink version. That one worked fine. I like to use the mouse
functions in Midnight Commander and they do not work.
Thanks!
John