How Do I Scroll With A Touchpad?
One of the harder-to-use features of laptop computers for many people is the touchpad, which replaces the mouse. While it is possible to attach an external mouse to a laptop, this is not always feasible or convenient. In that case, the touchpad is essential. The good news is, it is possible to get comfortable with a touchpad and have it perform all the functions a traditional mouse can, even scrolling.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Laptop with touchpad Internet connection (if necessary to download driver)
Instructions
-
-
1
Run your index finger vertically down the outer right edge of the touchpad in a window with a scrollbar. This should automatically scroll, just as the center "scroll" button on a mouse would. If not, there are a few other adjustments that might need to be made on your computer.
-
2
Go to Control Panel>Mouse and select the "Function" tab. This should take you to a screen with a "Scroll Settings" button, as well as a box that says "Use Scroll Function."
-
-
3
Make sure the "Use Scroll Function" box is checked. Scroll again as illustrated above. If it works, you are done. If not, continue in the "Function" tab of the "Mouse Properties" box.
-
4
Click the "Scroll Settings" button. The "Scroll Settings" properties allow you to adjust things such as the speed of the scroll, as well as the width of the scroll area. This means that a wider portion of the touchpad's edge will respond to scrolling input.
-
5
Scroll again with your index finger. You should see a response to your scrolling movements.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Most laptop computers with touchpads will have a touchpad icon in the status bar in the lower right corner of the computer. Clicking this will take you directly to the "Scroll Settings" field. Sometimes touchpad drivers are inadvertently removed from computers. In this case, you will need to go to your computer manufacturer's home page and find the area for downloading drivers.
