XP mouse pointer changes to text pointer plus vertical line to the right

[upgmr]

For the last couple of weeks, my mouse cursor has been changing to a text cursor, plus a vertical line about 3/16" to the right of the cursor. Everything works just fine, but it is odd. The cursor changes from the normal arrow to these shapes when I am in an input box, or passing over text. Any clues? Tried changing mouse cursors, no effect.

 

[me 1]

I don't fully understand...when in input box, or passing over text, isn't it normal to see the avarage text cursor?!

The vertical line isn't.
Go to control panel and choose a different pointer scheme (for all cursors) see if same behaviour...
Check colour depth of the cursor compared to the colour depth in your Display properties. A higher colour depth cursor and a lower Display can cause glitches.
For the vertical line you're seeing, try lowering your hardware acceleration slider one step .
Have U installed anything to personalize your pc lately?! or do U use themes?