R40 touchpad and trackpoint not working

[THE_IB]

I was using my R40 laptop a few days ago and suddenly the touchpad became unresponsive, as did the trackpoint. I tried resetting the computer, nothing. I went into the ThinkPad configuration to see if the touchpad was disabled, it was not. When I ran the UltraNav wizard a pop-up told me that I had to enable it in the BIOS or the ThinkPad configuration. I checked and in both cases the touchpad was enabled. What could be the problem? Maybe it just burned out, I'm not too sure but I'd love to hear some suggestions. Thanks.

[underclocker]

Since the two input devices (trackpoint, touchpad) are different physical devices with different connectors, this is odd. I haven't heard of a system board failing this way, but anything is possible.

To rule out any windows conflicts/issues, I'd boot from a floppy or CD that loads a mouse driver. The Hitachi drive test tool is a good utility to use, as it loads a version of DOS plus a mouse driver.

If the mouse fails, you have a hardware or embedded controller issue. If it works, you have a virus or windows config. issue.

If it fails, I'd try applying or reapplying the most recent BIOS and embedded conroller updates for the R40. I'd also remove the keyboard and ensure both the touchpoint and keyboard connectors are firmly in place.

If all fails, sell on eBay for parts, buy an R40 system board or complete bottom on eBay to swap, or add an extended warranty from IBM, wait a few months and get it fixed.

[tfflivemb2]

I know that it doesn't help, but to show you the oddity of it....neither of my R40's left click capabilities work. (either trackpoint or touchpad)

Edit for clarification: My issue is cleary hardware related, as it doesn't matter what OS I use....(Vista, XP, and even Linux Live CDs)

[ThinkPad R]

this is probably a virus or bug aimed to disable mouse functionality

SPECIFICALLY ON a thinkpad.

Restore to factory content setting or install new drivers.

Or System restore.