If you have a PowerBook computer with a Trackpad pointing device, you may have noticed the cursor jumping or moving where you do not want it to. This is not an uncommon issue, however, in most cases, there is nothing wrong with the Trackpad.

The Trackpad on the PowerBook 190, 500, 2300, and 5300 series computers works on a principal called coupling capacitance. As your finger moves over the surface, the Trackpad evaluates the change in capacitance between two layers of measurement electrodes built into the surface of the Trackpad.

• Make sure only one part of your finger is touching the Trackpad. You will not be able to use a pen or other object, it is designed to work with your finger.
• Also make sure you are not resting your wrist on or very close to the Trackpad. The Trackpad may interpret this as your wrist touching it and make the cursor move in that direction. If you suspect either of these is causing the cursor's behavior, try raising your wrist in the air and only touch the Trackpad with the tip of your finger. If the symptom goes away then you know that one of the above is the cause and you should adjust the position of your wrist and or finger.
• Do not use hand lotion, or consider purchasing a teflon pad to protect the Trackpad from lotion. Oil or lotion can cause the same problem as touching the Trackpad in two places. Teflon pads are sold by several third-party companies. If you decide to try the teflon pad, be sure that the Trackpad is clean before installing it.
• Remove rings or bracelets to see if the jumping or erratic behavior disappears. Jewelry may also cause interference.
• Wipe off the Trackpad with a cloth or tissue. This will usually fix this problem if you have a tendency to have sweaty hands or if other moisture collects on the Trackpad. Moisture may also confuse the Trackpad.

If you find it continues to get wet you may need to obtain a teflon pad/applique to fit over the Trackpad to prevent the moisture from having direct contact with the Trackpad. Before installing the teflon applique, make sure the Trackpad is clean. You can use a mild glass cleaner sprayed onto the cloth, not onto the Trackpad itself. Contact your local authorized Apple service provider or call 1-800-SOS-APPL for more information.

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