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General discussion

More Mouse Tales for Bob P. or Anybody Who Can Help

Dec 9, 2003 12:40PM PST

The old Newbie thread is too far back, so I'm starting this one. To review: New Dell laptop Win XP home recognizes external mice (3 so far) only 50% of the time. Had no luck returning the machine, and Dell has sent CD's for a reformat of the HD. I am suggesting everything I can think of to my father, the owner, before he ends up with more trouble than he knows what to do with. What do you guys think about going into Device Manager and uninstalling all entries for USB controllers and hubs -- hoping that on a reboot the thing will install USB controllers along with the mouse? If this sounds like it might be worth a try, please post a detailed step-by-step. I do not have XP, the machine is 700 miles away from me, and my father is inexperienced. Thank you for your input and support.

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Re:More Mouse Tales for Bob P. or Anybody Who Can Help
Dec 9, 2003 7:58PM PST

With everyone else not having this problem, the issue comes down to the simple problem that the machine of the load of the OS is broken.

It's a new Dell and you are letting them off the hook.

Make this point with them:

1. Fix it or give me my money back.

2. Be sure you are not loading ANY mouse software. I write this because Logitech and others are known to gum up the works. SO a clean install of the OS and just plugging in an USB mouse will work for the mice I have at office and home 100% of the time. And for everyone else.

3. item 1 is a good idea. Have you been shopping for laptops recently?

Bob

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Re:Re:More Mouse Tales for Bob P. or Anybody Who Can Help
Dec 10, 2003 4:15AM PST

Thank you, Bob.
#1. Didn't work.
#2. Sounds like a good idea as soon as I can send that mouse disc to the moon.
#3. Unfortunately, the last laptop I shopped for was the one in question with the highest consumer ratings of them all.

I will do my best to relay your information to my father. As always, your help is appreciated.

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Update
Dec 11, 2003 11:52PM PST

After my sending Dell an email, they replied that they will replace the system. Based on my research, it is really supposed to be an excellent computer. I guess this one was just a "lemon", or was somehow damaged in shipping.