Can I make the cursor default to the search box on Google?

[SciNeT]

I have Google as my homepage on IE8, when I select a new tab it goes straight to Google.com but the cursor does not flash ready to go in the search box, I have to navigate the mouse pointer, click in the box etc. Would be so convenient to simply click New Tab or Ctrl +T and begin typing a search query immediately without the extra faff - any work around?

 

[SciNeT]

IE did this until recently, no idea if it was an update by MS or Google that has stopped it though.

Hmm, wonder if IE8 used to do this and that's why I have only recently noticed it's become a faff. I have Firefox, will try that plus consider upgrading to IE9. Thanks.

 

[SciNeT]

I found a workaround to the cursor problem
Go to Google home page
Select Options in the upper right hand corner
Select Search settings
Scroll down to Google Instant
Change setting to Do not use Google Instant