The Macbook Track Pad Button Doesn't Register

The Macbook Track Pad Button Doesn't Register thumbnail
MacBook trackpads have been known to not register clicks.

Most newer laptop computers come with a touch pad that acts as a pointing device, like a mouse does. Users can glide their fingers over its surface to move the cursor. Apple computers have track pads that interpret cursor movements, as well as multiple-finger gestures. For instance, swiping up and down the track pad with three fingers will scroll through the page. The track pad button performs the functions of mouse buttons. If your track pad isn't working as it should, there are a couple of possible solutions you can try yourself.

  1. Causes

    • MacBook track pads not registering clicks is a known issue by Apple -- meaning that so many users have experienced the problem that Apple has publicly acknowledged it. While there could be several possible causes for this problem, Apple has issued two official possible causes, as well as solutions. If neither of these troubleshooting solutions works, you may have to get your computer serviced by a professional.

    Bad Grounding

    • One potential problem that could cause your track pad to be unresponsive is bad grounding. This is simple to test, and simple to fix. First, disconnect your MacBook from its power source, then check to see if the track pad works. If it does, your issue is bad grounding. Make sure that your AC adapter is an Apple-approved MacBook compatible charger. Also, avoid plugging it into an adapter, such as a three-prong adapter in a two-prong outlet. Instead, plug it directly into a three-prong outlet.

    Firmware Update

    • Apple officially announced that some of its MacBooks had track pad issues, where the button wasn't registering clicks. To fix this, they created a firmware update that's designed to resolve the issue. You can find it by searching Apple's support page (support.apple.com) for "MacBook, MacBook Pro Trackpad Firmware Update 1.0." Download and install the update, then test your track pad. If the issue still isn't resolved, you may need to get your computer serviced.

    See a Professional

    • Because there could be other more complex software or hardware issues at play, you should see a professional tech if the two troubleshooting solutions provided by Apple didn't fix your problem. If your device is under warranty, you can get it fixed at the Apple Store for free. If, however, your device is not under warranty, you might consider taking it to a local repair shop certified by Apple, as the Apple Store tends to be expensive. Explain to the technician the troubleshooting solutions you have already attempted so he can rule out certain possibilities before beginning work on your device.

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