Logitech G903: Onboard Memory Lightspeed Gaming Mouse Fails Intermittently on Debian-based Linux Distros
The Logitech G903 is a popular wireless gaming mouse that boasts programmable buttons and onboard memory. This feature allows users to program various functions, such as copy-paste, to the buttons for added convenience. However, some users have reported intermittent failures when using the mouse on Debian-based Linux distributions.
Understanding the Issue
The issue appears to be related to the way the Logitech G903 handles power management in Linux. When the system goes into power-saving mode, the mouse may disconnect and reconnect, causing the programmed buttons to reset. This can be frustrating for users who rely on the custom functions of the buttons.
Affected Linux Distributions
The issue has been reported on various Debian-based Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Pop!_OS. It is unclear whether other Linux distributions are affected, but it is likely that any distribution that uses the same power management system as Debian could be impacted.
Troubleshooting the Issue
There are a few potential solutions to this issue. One is to disable power management for the USB ports that the mouse is connected to. This can be done by adding the following line to the /etc/udev/rules.d/51-usbports.rules file:
ACTION=="add", SUBSYSTEM=="usb", ATTR{power/autosuspend}="0"Another potential solution is to use a different wireless dongle for the mouse. Some users have reported that using a different dongle, such as the one that comes with the Logitech G602, resolves the issue.
Logitech's Response
Logitech has acknowledged the issue and is working on a fix. In the meantime, they have suggested that users try disabling power management for the USB ports or using a different wireless dongle. They have also recommended that users contact their support team for further assistance.
The Logitech G903 is a great wireless gaming mouse, but intermittent failures on Debian-based Linux distributions can be frustrating. By disabling power management for the USB ports or using a different wireless dongle, users can potentially resolve the issue. Logitech is also working on a fix, so users can expect a more permanent solution in the future.
References
- Logitech G903 product page: https://www.logitechg.com/en-us/products/gaming-mice/g903-hero-wireless-gaming-mouse.html
- Logitech support forum: https://forums.logitechg.com/t5/Mice-and-Trackballs/Logitech-G903-Lightspeed-intermittent-disconnects-on-Linux/td-p/3186651
- Arch Linux forum: https://bbs.archlinux.org/viewtopic.php?id=257659
- Reddit post: https://www.reddit.com/r/linux_gaming/comments/j8q5zp/logitech-g903-wireless_mouse_intermittent/