i can't seem to control the mouse, it's jumping up and down on the screen. both the touchpad and external - same thing. does anyone have any experienc with this?
If this is a Mac laptop you're in the wrong sub-forum, but it sounds like an issue with your trackpad. Try connecting the external and enabling System Preferences > Accessibility > Mouse & Trackpad > Ignore built-in trackpad when mouse or wireless trackpad is present.