I have a Sony laptop, VGN SZ430N. Started experiencing a number of irritating issues but this one is the worst. After restart, the pointer is backwards from the touchpad. I've tried reinstalling Alps driver, version 7.0.501.5. I've tried repairing Vista. I've installed SP1.

Sony's answer is to reinstall SW image shipped with system. This creates a lot of work and problems reinstalling SW, personal folders, etc.

Not sure if this is HW or SW issue. Let me know if I have posted under wrong forum.