Odd mouse/log-in issue

Question

Hi all,
I was reviewing a document in Word for Mac 2011 today when my system froze.  I tried a reboot using the power switch but when I got to the log-in screen, the mouse cursor would move but clicking apparently had no effect.  After trying several more reboots, including into safe mode, the problem was recurring and I was unable to log in.  I left the computer for a few minutes while I made a coffee, and when I returned the password box had opened up and I was able to log-in.  I tried a restart and the same problem occurred but, again, the password box appeared after a couple of minutes and I could log-in, with everything appearing to work normally.
Any ideas what might be happening?  I'm running a 27" iMac with 1TB hard drive and 256GB SSD.
Thanks

Answer 1

Perhaps see if there are any updates for your computer via Software Update, when you are able to login to the computer? It would be difficult to know whether it is a software or hardware issue, but if it still occurs after installing updates (if there are any available), then perhaps consider booting into the Mac OS X installation wizard and doing a hardware test. If you have a newer iMac (from 2011, for example) and you have the "Internet Recovery" feature; from the last time I used it I recall it having a Hardware Test section, which tests the hardware (I think there is a hardware test section anyway!). To boot into recovery mode, press the Alt key (it is also referred to as the Option key) on your keyboard for 10 seconds as soon as the computer turns on, and find the "Recovery HD" option, if present. If it isn't present, you can launch Internet Recovery by pressing the Command and R key together as soon as the computer starts up; I'd recommend you hold those keys down for 15 seconds to make sure it boots into Internet Recovery. Otherwise, if you have OS X installation discs, perhaps load in the correct disc and initiate a hardware test to ensure the hardware is working fine? Last time I had OS X installation discs specific for an old Mac I had, it told you how to initiate a hardware test on the disc itself, I believe.
Loading up Internet Recovery or the Recovery HD option on its own won't destroy any data or anythng. It simply loads specific software to run hardware tests and also gives customers the option to reinstall Mac OS X in the event the customer would need to. Since newer Macs do not come with installation discs, Apple included alternative solutions being the Recovery HD and Internet Recovery.
Sorry if this is of no use to you. Perhaps someone else can reply offering a better possible solution if not.