curser control on computer

I have a shaky hand but a steady finger and so use the computer pad to control the curser. This sometimes goes haywire and I cannot control the curser who developes a mind of its own.
Is the curser software controlled. If software can this be updated? It is a Dell computer

Check that there is no dust or moisture on it.

Check particularly around the edges for anything trapped there, use a small brush to clean any dirt out that might be trapped in there. If there's a big gap, try the edge of a bit of paper instead. Then degrease (tiny touch of washing-up liquid).

Thanks for the advice. Is there a finger stall or covering available that would stop the finger moisture from becoming a problem? It is such a nuisance when it happens. Can take many minutes just to shut the computer down.
regards thoramay.

Thoramay, you can always use the keyboard to shut the computer down.

I think a finger stall or similar would be uncomfortable after a while. Maybe you could try a latex or plastic glove - just cut the fingers off and use those.

Have you thought of using a Bamboo (or similar make) pad with pen instead of a mouse? You may find that works well for you. The small ones don't cost a lot nowadays.

I've found some of the Dell trackpads terrible! Especially in the Mini 10v!! Bleurgh. Yes, they're software controlled and a driver update may help - but the technology in the trackpads isn't always that brilliant

You can always use the keyboard: Ctrl-Esc brings up the Start menu; Up arrow to select "Turn off Computer" and hit [Enter].
(That's XP, but it's similar for all Win OS)

Also, Win+L will lock the computer quickly (from where you can press [Tab] to select the Power Off choice).

There are other shortcuts too...

Matt

Most keyboards have a Windows key, which will bring up the start menu and then you can choose shut down computer with the arrow keys.

http://www.wacom.com/bamboo/ for a look at pads. You may find them easier to use.
I use one most of the time now instead of a mouse.

The Logitech Marble Trackball is superb. I would never go back to the old type of mouse. I have 3 of them. link on ebay

You move the ball with the first and second finger and click with the thumb. The third finger operates the mouse right click on the right hand button.

Edit: This one has a video. (also ebay, but I wouldn't buy a SH mouse).

Or the Logitech Trackman Wheel Mouse which has the ball on the left so you move ball with thumb - rest of "mouse" is operated by your fingers as normal. Great also if you have tendency towards carpal, as your wrist never has to move. Easy to adapt to.

Ebay link

I've never seen that one? I also have the Logitech Cordless Optical TrackMan that I use with my laptop because it's cordless. Not as good as the marble mouse the fingers still work the ball, but the thumb does most of the buttons apart from the right button. It does have a wheel. The marble mouse can be used as a wheel if you click right and left buttons at the same time. link

it247 have quite a lot of Logitech mice/trackballs.

It's down to personal preference, but the reason I recommend the Logitech Trackman Wheel Mouse is that your hand/wrist is firmly planted - and stationery - on the main body of the Trackman and the desk, only your thumb needs to move. This is a great way to limit exposure to repetitive stress on the wrist, but should also help with shaky hands as well I would expect.

Back to thoraymay's original trackpad question: you can check with Dell fairly easily to see if there is a later firmware update, but I suspect that what you are experience is "normal" for a trackpad. However if you don't use all the "clever" features in today's trackpads, sometimes you can get more reliable basic performance by turning off some of the more esoteric features. Should be some options, either under the trackpad control, or perhaps as part of your mouse control. The less the trackpad has to look the less likely it is to get "confused".