Computer image freakout

March 10, 2009 10:32 PM

Why do many programs on my computer "twitch" up and down uncontrollably when my cursor is on them? When the cursor is over the task bar or at the top of the screen, they stop.

Many of my programs (iTunes, Firefox, Explorer) do this sort of flipping, twitching thing when the cursor is on them. The whole page goes up and down quickly as if it's banging the upper and lower extremities of the window. If the cursor is on the task bar or at the top of the screen, they cease freaking out. Is there something wrong with my mouse? Not all programs do it, although the problem's getting worse.

posted by Waldo Jeffers to computers & internet (4 comments total)

this is probably not your answer, but just in case:

is your finger resting on the scroll wheel of your mouse?
I had this same problem until I realized that the weight of my finger just resting on the scroll wheel was enough to *almost* scroll up, but not quite. this threshold position was like that spot on a lightswitch where [if you move it slowly enough] the lights buzz and flicker.

There could also just be a problem with that sensor in your mouse, so... quick test would be to borrow somebody's mouse for a few minutes and see?
posted by Acari at 11:03 PM on March 10

What operating system are you using?
posted by Chocolate Pickle at 11:47 PM on March 10

I assume this is Windows since it has a "task bar."

I'll second the idea of a scroll wheel problem of some kind. Maybe there's too much gunk around the wheel somewhere... holding it half down all the time even without your finger. When I put my cursor on the task bar and move the scroll wheel around, nothing happens. But it sure does wiggle the contents of most (not all) program windows.

Shake the mouse violently and upside down. Tap it on the desk to dislodge any dead skin, hair, or other icky goop that might be in there. Now try again while keeping your hand completely off the wheel. Does the shaking stop?

Also, of course: try another mouse and see what happens.
posted by rokusan at 3:16 AM on March 11

Do you have a tablet? Setting the pen down on the tablet can make the cursor do weird things, so if you do, keep the pen in its holder when you aren't using it.
posted by sageleaf at 10:12 AM on March 11