Troubleshooting a Computer Mouse

Check that the Mouse is Plugged In

• If your mouse has stopped responding, the most likely reason is that it has become unplugged from the computer unit. Whether you have a wireless or a wired mouse, it likely connects to the side or rear of your computer using a PS2 connector (common on older machines) or a Universal Serial Bus (USB, common on most modern machines) connector. Follow the cord from the mouse or the wireless mouse base station to your computer and verify that the connection is secure. If necessary, unplug the mouse and plug it back in, or move it to another available port.

  Please note that some Bluetooth devices may not have a physical connection to the computer; if you are using a Bluetooth mouse that connects to your computer's built-in Bluetooth function, you can safely skip this step.

  
  

The Mouse May Not Be "Sensing"

• To detect movement, a mouse must track its motion around your desk using either a mouse ball or light reflection. Verify that the surface across which the mouse is moving is clean and free of debris, and that the mouse ball (if so equipped) moves uninhibitedly.

  If you are using an optical mouse, ensure that the red or blue light is visible underneath the mouse and that the surface is adequately reflective for the optical sensors to work. If you are using an analog mouse, remove the mouse ball and verify that the internal contacts are clear of any buildup that may inhibit movement.

The Wireless Mouse May Not be Linked

• If you are using a wireless mouse, it is possible that it is has become disconnected from its base station. This issue is common after power outages, battery replacement, moving of a computer or extended periods of inactivity. If you suspect your wireless or Bluetooth mouse has become disconnected from the machine, follow the instructions in your mouse owner's manual to synchronize it with your computer.

The Batteries May Have Died

• If you are using a wireless or Bluetooth mouse, the device may no longer be able to operate on the current batteries. Some input devices sporadically fail as their batteries get weaker, creating a mouse movement some users describe as "jumpy." If your wireless or Bluetooth mouse has stopped responding, has not been moving smoothly around the screen or fails to light up, you may need to replace or charge its batteries.

Your Computer May Have a Virus

• Some computer viruses put such a load on the machine's processor that the computer is unable to accurately track the movement of the mouse. If you have followed the troubleshooting steps above but still have spontaneous mouse movement, jerky movement around the screen, or if your mouse does not respond at all, use software such as AVG Anti-Virus to run a full scan of your computer and remove any viruses or spyware that may be slowing down your machine. If your mouse is completely inoperable, you may need to use keyboard shortcuts and commands to obtain and operate the software.

The Mouse May Need to be Replaced

• Although a mouse rarely fails, it can and does happen. If you have followed all of the steps above and have not been able to restore your mouse to functionality, you may need to purchase a new mouse. These devices are readily available at electronics store and discount retail chains, and range in price from $10 to over $100.