Windows 7 - Disable touchpad

Just got a new HP Pavilion Notebook. I didn't like using the touchpad, so I plugged in a mouse. Then, I went to the Control Panel and TRIED to disable the touchpad. The mouse works great, but the touchpad keeps enabling itself again. It really gets ugly when I'm using the mouse and stop to type something in and the weight of my hands causes the screen zoom to adjust and jump.
Nasty... Is there any way to completely disable the touchpad until I really want to use it? Thanks.

Have a look at this HP Forum thread: How to Disable Touchpad - HP Support Forum

Coincidentally, I had exactly the same problem with my Sony Vaio laptop - disabling the pointing device and using a wireless mouse instead does for me.

Thanks for the suggestion and reply. After looking at the thread I see that there is no permanent way to disable this touchpad. It will always return... I hate to do it, but I think I may have to call HP India.