After several weeks of typical use, a Microsoft wireless device may stop responding

View products that this article applies to.

This article was previously published under Q322609

SYMPTOMS

When you use one of the Microsoft pointing devices that are listed in the "Applies to" section of this article, the device may stop responding after several weeks of typical use.

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CAUSE

This issue may occur when the batteries in the Microsoft wireless device have to be replaced. If the device is rechargeable, this issue may occur if the batteries have to be recharged.

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RESOLUTION

To resolve this issue, use one of the following methods for the appropriate device.

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Method 1: Replace the batteries (non-rechargeable device)

If the device is non-rechargeable, follow these steps:

Turn the device upside down, and then remove the battery compartment cover.
Insert new batteries. Make sure that you orient the positive and negative ends correctly, as specified by the battery compartment labels.
Close the battery compartment cover.

Note Use only two fresh, alkaline batteries. Do not use rechargeable or other kinds of batteries in a product that is not designed to use rechargeable batteries.

For more information about how to replace the batteries, see the documentation that was included together with the product.

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Method 2: Recharge the batteries (rechargeable device)

If the device is rechargeable, follow these steps:

Connect the device for recharging. Depending on the product, the connection point might be a "dock" that the device sits in or, it might be a cable that connects to the device.
If the charging light turns red or flashes red after several seconds, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the device from the charging connection.
2. Turn off the device.
3. Remove the batteries from the device.
4. Wipe the batteries by using a clean, soft cloth.
5. Wait 10 seconds, and then replace the batteries in the device.
6. Turn on the device. Then try step 1 again.
If the issue persists, try one of the following additional steps:
- If the device has an AC adapter for charging, try using a different power outlet.
- If the device charges through the USB port, try using a different USB port (preferably on the back of the computer).
Note If the device includes rechargeable batteries, trying to recharge alkaline or other non-rechargeable batteries in the device will cause the flashing red light condition. If alkaline batteries are being used in the device, the device should not be recharged. The flashing red light condition can also occur if the spring that holds the battery in place is loose and does not hold the battery securely.

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MORE INFORMATION

For more information about how to troubleshoot a wireless product, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

838398 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/838398/ ) The Microsoft wireless keyboard or mouse does not respond as expected or responds intermittently

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