All data fields and search boxes are automatically starting a runninng line of dots as if I have held down the full stop key. I cannot stop it and I cannot enter anything. It happens in all programs. MAC is completely unusable. I have changed the keyboard and the mouse.
Please read this whole message before doing anything.
This procedure is a diagnostic test. It’s unlikely to solve your problem. Don’t be disappointed when you find that nothing has changed after you complete it.
The purpose of the test is to determine whether the problem is caused by third-party software that loads automatically at startup or login, by a peripheral device, by a font conflict, or by corruption of the file system or of certain system caches.
Disconnect all wired peripherals except those needed for the test, and remove all aftermarket expansion cards, if applicable. Start up in safe mode and log in to the account with the problem. You must hold down the shift key twice: once when you turn on the computer, and again when you log in.
Note: If FileVault is enabled in OS X 10.9 or earlier, or if a firmware password is set, or if the startup volume is a software RAID, you can’t do this. Ask for further instructions.
Safe mode is much slower to start up and run than normal, with limited graphics performance, and some things won’t work at all, including sound output and Wi-Fi on certain models. The next normal startup may also be somewhat slow.
The login screen appears even if you usually login automatically. You must know your login password in order to log in. If you’ve forgotten the password, you will need to reset it before you begin.
Test while in safe mode. Same problem?
After testing, restart as usual (not in safe mode) and verify that you still have the problem. Post the results of the test.
Thanks for answering. I tried this morning to open in safe mode - problem is that the password box is taken up by continuously streaming full stops and I cannot type into it. I can use the mouse pointer in normal mode to open files, open programs and move things around, but as soon as there is a text type field its sabotaged !
If you have a wired keyboard and mouse, you should be able to turn off Bluetooth. Does that have any effect?
I have tried wired keyboard and mouse, but did not think to turn off bluetooth. Not at home now, but will give it a go tonight. Thanks
Thank you for your advice. I have certainly found the cause of the problem and its not my MAC. I used yet another wired keyboard and mouse; disconnected the back up external drive; disconnected the internet modem; turned off wi-fi and turned off bluetooth. And it worked GREAT.
Ran a disk clean up, but nothing found.
Reconnected the Modem - TROUBLE !!. so I disconnected but turned wi-fi back on. All OK.
Turned bluethooth on - still OK.
Reconnected modem - TROUBLE !!
So its the modem. I have always had it hardwire connected to the back of the computer and this is what was required when it was installed and I had a PC. SO now, I can obviously access internet, email etc by bluetooth (is that correct) without it being hard linked into the back. All other devices in the house working as well.
Thank you again for your help
All data fields and search boxes are overtaken by a running line of dots as if I have the full stop key held down. I have changed keyboards and mouse without success
