Mouse not responding, erratic behavior

Mouse not responding, erratic behavior

Document number: 39056

If the mouse is behaving erratically, jumping all over the screen, acting if a button has been clicked when it hasn't been clicked, and similar behavior there are four possible causes. (1) The mouse has a broken connection (2) the port has a broken connection (3) it is an optical mouse being used on something reflective or shiny or (4) the driver has been corrupted and needs replaceing.

The first cause is ruled in or out by swapping the mouse for one that is known to work. The second cause is something to consider when all else fails. Port problems are a known issue with the Toshiba Tecra 9100. To check the third one use the mouse on a sheet of plain paper. The last issue is the one this document covers.

Force the machine to reinstall the mouse driver:

Press {Ctrl} + {Esc} to activate the Start button.
Use the up arrow key to scoll up the the Settings entry in the Start menu.
Use the right arrow key to move over.
When Control Panel is highlighted press the {Enter} key to select it.
When Control Panel opens use the arrow keys to move to and highlight Administrative Tools.
When Administrative Tools is highlighted press the {Enter} key to select it.
Use the arrow keys to move to and highlight Computer Management.
When Computer Management is highlighted press the {Enter} key to select it.
Use the arrow keys to move to Device Manager.
Press the {Tab} key to move to the right-hand panel.
Use the arrow keys to move to Mice and other pointing devices.
Press the right arrow key to open the selection.
Press the down arrow key to select a mouse.
Press the {Delete} key to delete the device.
Press {Enter} to confirm the deletion.
Delete each entry.
Press {Ctrl}+{Alt}+{Del}
Use the arrow keys to select Shutdown from the Windows Security menu.
Use the arrow keys to select Shutdown from the drop down menu.
Press Enter to confirm.
When the machine turns off:
Unplug everything connected to the machine. Power cord, network cord ... everything.
Remove the battery.
Press the power switch.
Replace the battery.
Boot up the machine, but don't log on. When the log on screen appears use the arrow keys to shut it down again.
Now reconnect everything, including the mouse and reboot.

If the above steps do not resolve your problem see 39021 — How to troubleshoot mouse problems or use the mouse troubleshooter. If neither document solves the problem then you will need open a NorthStar ticket to make an appointment for service. Be sure to include your contact number. Describe the problem in detail, especially the steps you took to try to correct the problem. You will be contacted by the appropriate party. For more information on creating the NorthStar ticket, see Eureka! document 39068 — How to submit a computer or peripheral for repair.