What to do if a mouse doesn’t obey? - briefly
If a non‑responsive mouse fails to follow commands, verify that training cues are clear, confirm the device’s power and sensor alignment, and adjust reward timing accordingly. corrective actions should include recalibrating the hardware, resetting the control software, and ensuring no mechanical obstructions.
What to do if a mouse doesn’t obey? - in detail
When a pointing device stops reacting, systematic troubleshooting restores functionality.
First, verify power and connectivity. For wired units, confirm the cable is securely attached to the computer’s port; for wireless models, replace depleted batteries and ensure the receiver is firmly plugged in.
Second, examine software settings. Open the operating system’s device manager or equivalent utility, locate the mouse entry, and look for warning icons indicating driver issues. If a driver is outdated or corrupted, download the latest version from the manufacturer’s website and reinstall.
Third, test the hardware on another computer. Successful operation elsewhere confirms the device is functional; failure on multiple systems suggests internal damage.
Fourth, clean the sensor area. Accumulated dust or debris can block optical or laser detection; use a lint‑free cloth and compressed air to remove particles.
Fifth, adjust system preferences. Disable conflicting input devices, reset pointer speed, and ensure that accessibility options such as “mouse keys” are not unintentionally enabled.
If all steps above prove ineffective, consider the following actions:
- Reset the USB controller by disabling and re‑enabling it in the device manager.
- Perform a system restore to a point before the malfunction began.
- Replace the mouse with a known‑good unit and monitor for recurring issues, which may indicate a deeper hardware fault in the host computer.
Document each step, noting observed changes, to facilitate future support inquiries.