How to Disable a MacBook’s Built-In TrackPad When Using a Mouse or Wireless Trackpad

Background

For me this became a requirement as my trackpad started malfunctioning. But it can be a useful feature as well. When we connect a mouse we would not want trackpad to work. For eg. lets say you are playing counter strike with a mouse you definitely don't want trackpad to change your aim in game. So it would be better if you disable in build trackpad while mouse is connected. In this post I will show you how you can do this.

Disable Trackpad in OS X Lion and Above

For this you need to go to -

• System Preferences > Accessibility > Mouse & Trackpad

Here you will find a checkbox saying "Ignore built-in trackpad when mouse or wireless trackpad is present". Click it and make sure you have checked it. Setting should take effect immediately.

Disable Trackpad in OS X Snow Leopard

Setting is the same here too. It's just at different path. So head to 

• System Preferences > Universal Access > Mouse & Trackpad

Here again you will find the same checkbox. Check it and you should be good to go.