Q: Mouse cursor is uncontrollable or behaves erratically
Several factors can cause an optical tracking device to have erratic cursor movement. Possibilities range from the type of surface you use to hardware problems or software configurations.
This article covers basic steps for the cause and resolution of erratic cursor movement in Logitech optical and laser mice.
Symptoms and Causes
There can be several causes for eratic or uncontrollable cursors. These issues may include:
- Type of surface where you are using your mouse
- Battery issues
- Interference with other electrical products
- The distance of the receiver from the mouse while in use
Solutions
Surfaces: The type of surface where you use the mouse can play an important role in the cursor tracking. The optical sensor must use the pattern on the surface to track the position of the cursor. Therefore, using the mouse on an opaque surface, such as glass, will prohibit the ability of the sensor to track the cursor. Reflective surfaces, such as mirrors or a shiny metal desktop, can also result in tracking problems. In both these situations, try using the mouse on a mouse pad or piece of paper. Other surfaces that have been known to cause tracking problems are:
- Some wood grains
- Grooved surfaces
Usage Hint: Using the mouse on a white sheet of paper can conserve battery life.
Batteries: Low or dead batteries can affect tracking. Try replacing the batteries with a fresh set and test the tracking.
Interference: Other electrical devices may interfere with the radio signal the mouse uses to communicate with the receiver. Try placing the receiver in a different location, away from monitors, zip drives, and other electrical devices. Also, try rotating the receiver so it is on its side (or back).
Distance and Position: Logitech cordless pointing devices can transmit a signal up to six feet or more depending on the frequency the device transmits, however some objects may interfere with the strength of a signal. If your mouse is six feet or more from the receiver, try moving the receiver or mouse closer to each other. Also, if you have the receiver plugged into a computer or USB hub located under a desk, you should move the receiver and mouse to different positions so they have more of a line of sight to each other.
Software (SetPoint): If the above steps do not solve your erratic cursor movement, the erratic movement may be caused by software. This can be fixed by adjusting the mouse settings in SetPoint.
1. Open SetPoint (Click the Start Menu > Programs > Logitech > Keyboards and Mice)
2. Click the 'Cursor' icon in side menu. This should be the second icon from the top and labeled with a cursor arrow. (See figure below).
3. Use the indicator to set the cursor speed. If the cursor speed is set too fast, the cursor can move so fast it will appear erratic.
Figure 1
Update:
It is also a good idea to ensure you are running the latest version of SetPoint for your device. If you have not updated your SetPoint software lately or have just installed it from the CD, you will want to run the Web Updates from your SetPoint software.
1. Open SetPoint (Click the Start Menu > Programs > Logitech > Keyboards and Mice)
2. Click the Tools tab located at the top of the window.
3. Click the Logitech Shortcut icon on the left menu (see Figure 2 below).
4. Click the "Check Now" button to run the automatic web update (Internet connection is required).
If an update is required, the updater will inform you. Follow any on screen directions to complete the install. A restart will be required.
If the automatic update fails or cannot connect, you can still download the latest drivers for your device. Please visit the Logitech Downloads page. You will then have to select your product before manually downloading your software.
NOTE: You can see the version of SetPoint you currently have by clicking the "Information" Icon located in the left side menu bar, right above the Logitech shortcut icon in the figure below. (It is an "i" with a circle around it).
Figure 2