General Question

emilyrose's avatar

Anyone know how to deal with a crazy mouse on a dell laptop?

Asked by emilyrose (2272points) September 26th, 2007

So this just started happening recently, but I have seen it on other laptops as well. My mouse (or pointer or whatever you call it on the screen) kind of floats around and sometimes I have no control over it and can’t even click on anything. So far it always goes back to normal at some point, but sometimes I have to shut the computer down. It is getting worse each day. Has anyone else experienced this and is there anything I can do? It’s a dell inspiron 4100. Would getting an actual external mouse even help? I have both the little square pad below the keyboard, as well as the little “dot” in keyboard, but when the thing is haywire, neither one works.

Observing members: 0 Composing members: 0

4 Answers

Perchik's avatar

I had the same problem for awhile, but I dont remember how/what fixed it. All I can do is say that it happened to me too, and it’s fixable. Have you contacted dell about it?

Perchik (4997points)“Great Answer” (0points) Flag as…
Spargett's avatar

I would make sure that there isn’t any interference on the trackpad by cleaning well. Sometimes dirt or other things can give false input, especially in union with your finger. Make sure to clean all around the edges very good.

I use a homemade mix of 50% of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water in a spray bottle, which is exactly what’s in expensive display cleaners. A great solution for all computer cleaning needs.

It could also just be a dying trackpad, you never know. If that doesn’t help, the simplest solution would be to get an external mouse, either wireless or USB.

Spargett (5395points)“Great Answer” (1points) Flag as…
Spargett's avatar

Also, if the cursor still goes crazy when using a mouse, see if there is a preference to turn off the trackpad when a mouse is plugged in.

Spargett (5395points)“Great Answer” (0points) Flag as…
emilyrose's avatar

I havent contacted dell. I went on their website and it wasnt very helpful, but I may just try it. I will also try what you all described in terms of cleaning, etc. Thanks!

emilyrose (2272points)“Great Answer” (0points) Flag as…

Answer this question

Login

or

Join

to answer.

This question is in the General Section. Responses must be helpful and on-topic.

Your answer will be saved while you login or join.

Have a question? Ask Fluther!

What do you know more about?
or
Knowledge Networking @ Fluther