selections auto-complete

[meamjw]

I am using CS2 on a Pentium 4 1.7GHz machine with 512MB RAM and several hundred GB free HDD. Yes, I know more RAM would be nice, but Sony says my computer can't use more.
My very annoying problem is that the lasso tool often automatically completes my selections long before I'm finished; sometimes after I've made only two or three anchoring clicks.
I have found that resetting preferences cures the problem for awhile─sometimes a few weeks, sometimes just a few days. Then it reverts to hateful behavior. I'm guessing that the fact that this works for awhile holds the key to a permanent fix if anyone knows enough about the code to decipher the details
Sometimes this gets so bad that I just make a quick area selection and resort to using quick mask to fine tune.
Perhaps I should have posted this in "Advanced" since it's unlikely that many people have this problem?

[NEMESIS]

Well on Windows machines after some time using things get messed up badly. Try re-installing Photoshop and in worst case OS. Or you can try repairing OS from installation CD without completely formatting the drive. But i guess your hardware is questionable too. Is pretty older machine and you know granny can't run 100m like some young girl :D

[Old Geezer]

I have had this since using PS5 & still does it in CS4, it is a pain but I have always put up with it. I have no trouble with my Wacom though.
If you are using a mouse, set the 'double click' rate down a little, I have found this helps.

[meamjw]

Old Geezer,
I have never used a tablet, but have thought several times about getting one. I have read that selections and several other things are much easier with them. Do you believe that to be true? If using one would stop the auto selection, that alone would make it more than worthwhile. I do lots of selecting and that auto stuff causes me hours of extra work.
meamjw

[Old Geezer]

Using a Tablet has a lot of advantages but I couldn't say for certain it would solve your Lasso problem.
For restoring I find it so much easier but do not use it all the time, I have used a mouse for so long it is now part of my right hand.
Photoshop does throw up problems from time to time and for no reason what so ever, sometimes my Lasso shoots accross the screen and on to my second screen. I suppose patience comes with age and it doesn't bother me much at all now.
If you do go for a tablet, choose a Wacom. You don't need a big one unless you are an artist. You can program them to suite and have no battery in the pen.

[meamjw]

Old Geezer,
Thanks for the info. As I said I have thought several times I would like to have a tablet, so now you have reenforced the notion. I think I'm gonna give it a try.
meamjw