If the pointer does not respond correctly to the mouse motion, try the following depending on which mouse you have.

Optical Mouse
The surface on which you use the mouse plays an important role in its tracking. The optical sensor must use the pattern on the surface to track the position of the cursor. Therefore, using the mouse on a glass or otherwise see-through surface will inhibit the ability of the sensor to track the cursor. Also, if you are using the mouse on a reflective surface, such as a mirror or shiny metal desk, you may also experience tracking problems. In both these situations, try using the mouse on a mouse pad or a light colored piece of paper. Other surfaces that have been known to cause tracking problems are some wood grains and grooved surfaces. Surfaces that can extend battery life for wireless optical mice are generally light in color like white, tan, or gray. These surfaces also provide better tracking in general.

Ball-based Mouse
Symptoms that affect movement of mechanical mice are usually caused by dirt, lint, or other obstructions in the mouse itself. To clean the mouse, remove the belly door on the bottom of the mouse by pressing down while turning it in a clockwise direction. Now turn the mouse over and the ball should fall into your hand. Check for the presence of lint, dust and other contaminates. Visually inspect the rollers and remove any dirt or dust, which may be interfering with movement. While the ball is out, move the rollers directly with a finger and verify there is corresponding movement on the screen. If moving the rollers manually with your finger does not move the cursor correctly then there maybe an internal problem with the mouse and it may need replacing.

Tracking issues can also be caused by the surface the mouse is used on. Try the mouse on a mouse pad or other surface to verify the issue is with the surface and not the mouse. If the mouse does not track properly on different surfaces, then it may need cleaning. Use the cleaning instructions above to clean the mouse and rollers.

Wireless Labtec Mice
If you are using a wireless Labtec device, there are other variables that might affect the tracking.

• Range of the receiver:  Labtec wireless pointing devices can transmit a signal up to six feet. Make sure the receiver and mouse are within six feet of each other. Try different positions on your desktop to see if there is any effect.
• Interference with other electrical products: Other electrical devices may interfere with the radio signal that the mouse uses to communicate with the receiver. Try placing the receiver or the mouse in a different location, away from the monitor, zip drives, and other electrical devices.  You can also try moving these other devices to another location.
• Batteries: Tracking can be affected by low or dead batteries. Try replacing the batteries with a fresh set and test the tracking. Although you can use rechargeable batteries, alkaline batteries have been found to have the longest battery life.