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Malfunctioning cursor

My cursor started acting erratically - opened files when hovering, selects text while I'm typing (especially in search boxes, FaceBook) then deletes on the next keystroke, jumping erratically.

Using the MacBook was almost impossible.

Problems occurred when using both Bluetooth Mouse and the trackpad (I rarely use the trackpad).


I looked up various forums and followed several suggestions including re-install Snow Leopard.

None worked.

During the intstallation, MacBook crashed.


Took to Mac reseller store for repair by a Mac trained(?) tech.

Tech reported that: pram, nvram and smc reset not successful (I don't know what those things are.)

and says that it may be a bulging battery or the trackpad needs replacing.

And he cannot determine without removing the battery (is waiting on tools to do so).

Tech estimates trackpad replacement and labour (if that is the cause) $200 - $250.


I set the OS to disable the trackpad when an external mouse is being used.

There is some improvement - but still arbitrarily opens some files and selects some text without my clicking to do so.


Has anyone had this experience and found a solution?

Does anyone know if the tech's comments are reasonable?

MacBook, Mac OS X (10.5.8)

Posted on Jul 29, 2012 7:39 PM

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Posted on Jul 29, 2012 7:55 PM

It is indeed possible that a battery that has begun to expand (some do with age) will cause issues with keyboard and / or trackpad. Is yours an aluminum or plastic MacBook? It is quite easy to remove the plastic MacBook's battery without tools.


PRAM, VRAM and SMC resets are valid techniques for working with your issue.


Best of luck.

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Question marked as Best reply

Jul 29, 2012 7:55 PM in response to jackdawart

It is indeed possible that a battery that has begun to expand (some do with age) will cause issues with keyboard and / or trackpad. Is yours an aluminum or plastic MacBook? It is quite easy to remove the plastic MacBook's battery without tools.


PRAM, VRAM and SMC resets are valid techniques for working with your issue.


Best of luck.

Jul 29, 2012 8:24 PM in response to laundry bleach

I don't need the MacBook to be portable.

I have it plugged in all the time - except rare occassions when I take it to McDonalds.😀

Something I do not understand from the tech's note:

1. He is waiting to receive the tool he needs to remove the battery.

I live in a rural area; it is the closest reseller for 50 miles and they sell quite a few Macs.

I would have thought they would have the necessary tools.

2. If a tool is needed for removing the battery, I gather that removing and replacing it is not something I can do.

Jul 29, 2012 8:29 PM in response to jackdawart

I too am puzzled by the tech's insistance that he needs a tool to remove the battery. It should come out fairly easily with no tool needed whatsoever. It is barely possible that the battery has expanded enough to make it so he has to disassemble the MacBook in order to get it out, in which case you may well have worse problems, such as a bent frame.

Malfunctioning cursor

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