Solved Typing Problems

[awgar]

In the last week or so, perhaps since installing the update for Windows 7, 64 bit systems, I have had a problem with an over-sensitive touchpad. I'll be typing away and the cursor will suddenly move back into the body of text that I have previously typed, causing the typing to start in the midst of an earlier sentence. I have to stop, go back and cut out the erroniously inserted words and letters and move them back to where they belong. Apparently, I'm hitting the touchpad and causing this, but it seems to happen even when I'm consciously trying to avoid the touchpad.

I'm running a Dell Inspiron 1420, Windows 7 Home Premium, 64 bit with 1 gb of RAM. The processor is an Intel Duo Core 1.5 GHz.

Is there a way to reduce the sensitivity of the touchpad? I see older posts on this same topic but no solutions posted.

 

[karlsnooks]

Awgar,

Welcome to Seven Forums.

right-click on the touchpad icon in the system tray |
Pointing device properties | Device Settings tab | Settings button | Sensitivity item

 

[awgar]

Thanks for the welcome, karlsnooks.

Well, my original hard drive crashed on this Dell, and I installed Windows 7 Home Premium on the new one. So, I have no software from Dell (nor from Alps, the touchpad software people).

My driver is the one used for a standard PS/2 Compatible Mouse; thus, I have no Touchpad Icon to right-click on.

As I typed this, my cursor jumped back twice into earlier text. Maybe I should get something to cover the touchpad while I'm typing.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

All drivers should still available with latest updates via Dell's support website referencing your machine for free. Worth a look around as you may find other valuable updates to load?

 

[awgar]

Thanks, I'll check

 

[awgar]

Typing problems

No joy. This Inspiron model 1420 is not on Dell's Windows 7 compatibility list. See jaypeg below where it appears that Dell is saying they support Vista and XP but not Win 7 when installed on the 1420.

Should I try Vista drivers for the touchpad?

 

[whs]

Maybe you want to switch the touchpad off completely and use a mouse.

 

[awgar]

I suppose. But I spend a lot of time in my recliner which would be somewhat awkward - wireless mouse on my armrest.

I'd prefer to use the touchpad, so I'll check a Dell forum to see if anyone knows if the Vista drivers will work.

Thanks.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

You may find that the Vista driver will work but I agree that a nice wireless or wired keyboard and mouse could be a great aid at your desk and then just back up the mouse to go. Then look into one of these badboys and it's like a total make over.
Amazon.com: 3M Vertical Notebook Riser (LX550): Office Products

 

[WebMattR]

Well, I would try installing the Vista drivers. If that doesn't work, buy yourself like a nice Kensington SlimBlade. They're pricey, but really good on batteries (mine goes months between changes).

 

[karlsnooks]

Thanks for the welcome, karlsnooks.

Well, my original hard drive crashed on this Dell, and I installed Windows 7 Home Premium on the new one. So, I have no software from Dell (nor from Alps, the touchpad software people).

My driver is the one used for a standard PS/2 Compatible Mouse; thus, I have no Touchpad Icon to right-click on.

As I typed this, my cursor jumped back twice into earlier text. Maybe I should get something to cover the touchpad while I'm typing.

possible learn not to rest the hands on the keyboard.

However, as pointed out, Dell will have the latest drivers for your touchpad for your model.

As a question, did you enable Windows Update to also fetch updates for other MS software and for drivers? If you haven't then please do so.

Install all Critical updates. Run Windows Update again. Install all Important updates. Run Windows update again. Install all Optional updates. Run Windows Update again. Did it finally come up empty?

Win 7 is not XP. Install all updates offered by Microsoft. Do not try to 2nd guess Microsoft or listen to some charlatan on the web saying anything less than what I've advised.

 

[awgar]

Typing Problems - Solution

OK, this driver worked:
Drivers and Downloads

I'm running Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit on a Dell Inspiron 1420. The Alps Touchpad icon reappeared, after a reboot, and I moved the slider to require a "Heavy (ier) Touch and, Voila!, problem solved. No cursor jumpback.