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How to cure an erratic mouse?

iMac (OS 10.11.6). Mouse is acting erratically - cursor is jumping all over screen.

I'd appreciate any suggestions.

iMac 21.5″, OS X 10.11

Posted on Sep 16, 2021 11:00 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Sep 16, 2021 11:46 AM

Two simple things to do: clean the optical sensor and try a different mouse mat.

4 replies

Sep 16, 2021 11:04 AM in response to edfromoaklyn

The following will require any USB keyboard and mouse. If you don’t have them, borrow or buy them, they are inexpensive!



  • Connect the USB keyboard and mouse to the computer.
  • Open System Preferences – Bluetooth   
  • Un-pair the wireless keyboard and mouse.
  • Turn off Bluetooth
  • Restart the computer in Safe Mode per the directions in https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201262
  • Restart the computer normally.
  • Open System Preferences – Bluetooth
  • Turn on Bluetooth
  • Re-Pair the wireless keyboard and mouse.   
  • Unplug the USB keyboard and mouse and begin testing the wireless devices again.

How to cure an erratic mouse?

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