Mouse Pointer is getting messed up

Anonymous
2010-01-02T17:00:18+00:00

Hi,

I'm using Windows 7 Ultimate 64 bit and have nothing fancy -- regular wired mouse, keyboard, etc.

Every once in a while, my mouse pointer gets messed up i.e. turns into a strange looking line/bar. This seems to happen when I have a few applications running but couldn't tell you if a particular application seems to be causing the issue.

Any idea how I can prevent this issue?

Thanks,

Sam

Thanks,

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Windows update

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments
Answer accepted by question author
Anonymous
2010-08-12T02:01:36+00:00

A Quick fix has been found, does not prevent the problem from reoccurring though, go to control panel-> Hardware -> mouse -> pointer options and set Pointer Trails to yes.

hope this helps (It works for me)

Was this answer helpful?

200+ people found this answer helpful.
0 comments
Answer accepted by question author
Anonymous
2010-01-03T15:21:52+00:00

Hi Imsam67,

Welcome to Microsoft answers.

This might be an issue related with the drivers for the mouse after installing Windows 7; you may try updating the drivers for the mouse from the Device Manager and check.

·         Are you using Desktop computer or Laptop?

1.         Click Start.

2.         Type Device Manager in Start search.

3.         Expand Mice and other Pointing devices in device manager window.

4.         Right Properties.

5.         Click on driver tab.

6.         Click Update drivers.

7.          Click OK.

Check if any exclamation marks are shown with the device. The exclamation mark shows an issue with the driver installed.

Refer the link to update the drivers: Update a driver for hardware that isn't working properly: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/Update-a-driver-for-hardware-that-isnt-working-properly

I also suggest that you manually download the drivers from the manufacturer’s website and try installing the same on the computer and check.

You may also try connecting mouse to different port and check, this is to narrow down the issue if the issue is with mouse or with ports. You may also try connecting different mouse to the computer and try connecting this mouse to different computer and check.

Swathi B 

  • Microsoft Support.

Visit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forumand let us know what you think.

Was this answer helpful?

100+ people found this answer helpful.
0 comments

77 additional answers

Sort by: Oldest
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Anonymous
    2011-02-13T22:39:35+00:00

    Might not be a 'driver issue' but it could be the 'type' of mouse you are using. Some are poorly contructed, others are not, and, it's usually the poorly contructed ones that everyone seems to have trouble with. I don't use a 'wired' mouse (one with cable), I have used a wireless mouse (a Logitech MX 600 Laser) for years. With no problems whatsoever. Not even a RSI complaint.

    Constant use of a corded mouse will. There's also the possibility, from contstant use, that the cable-wires do break. Right up next to the mouse itself.

    Solution?    Replace the Mouse.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  2. Anonymous
    2011-02-13T23:05:43+00:00

    Solution?    Replace the Mouse.

    It's an interesting theory, considering that the mouse in no way determines what pointer is displayed. 

    I use a Logitech MX700 and MX1000 and it happens to me with either.

    -G

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  3. Anonymous
    2011-02-15T09:37:56+00:00

    The error appears to have to do with ATI video drivers, when used for a prolonged period of time with Direct X in a graphically intensive environment. IE Playing a game for several hours tends to make this happen if you have an ATI card.

    A fix was posted above, to switch your mouse to use pointer trails. Sadly the method only works if you leave pointer trails on.

    1. Click Start.
    2. Type Mouse into the Search bar, then select Mouse when it appears, or hit enter.
    3. Select the tab labeled as "Pointer Options"
    4. Make sure the box labeled as "Show Pointer Trails" is checked.
    5. Set the slider for "Pointer Trails" to "Short"
    6. Click "Apply" and then "OK"

    The above should resolve the issue both in game and out of game.

    *EDIT* As always make sure your drivers are upto date. At some point ATI is likely to fix this issue permanently, as they already know about this issue.

    S3

    Was this answer helpful?

    1 person found this answer helpful.
    0 comments