Mouse pointer sticking at startup

I am running XP Home, and sometimes when I startup the computer, when it gets to needing to use the mouse to clickon my sign-in, the pointer will not move. I can get past this point and complete the boot-up using the keyboard, but the mouse pointer remains frozen. If I restart the system, sometimes it sticks again, and sometimes is OK. Has anyone got a cure for this problem, please? I am not very technically minded, so please word any suggestions simply and step by step. Thank You.

Bill Yarrow

 

Hello billy,

Issues to look at:

How much RAM do you have?

What's starting up in terms of XP's services and applications?

start > type msconfig > startup tab

To see what's needed/not needed http://www.answersthatwork.com/Tasklist_pages/tasklist.htm in the way of apps

Same for XP's services: http://www.blkviper.com/WinXP/servicecfg.htm


Do you have an optical mouse along with it's software?

Regards - Charles

 

Also check is the connection. With the computer turned off, unplug the mouse and plug it back in to make sure it's seated securely into the back of the computer. Then boot up and see if the problem has been resolved.

If that doesn't do it, the easiest way to find out if it's the mouse itself is to use another mouse you know works. If that solves the problem, then it's time to buy a new mouse.

 

Thanks Miz, but I have already tried another mouse - same trouble!
Bill

 

Thanks Charles,

I have 512MB Ram, so there should not be a problem there.
My mouse is a PS/2 Microsoft wheel mouse, I have also tried a different brand of PS/2 mouse with similar results.
I've looked at the Startup config since you suggested - do you want a list? I'm going to check out the URL's you gave me later, as my "better half" is making noises about mealtime!
Will be in touch again.