running freebsd 11.1 i386 using mate desktop on dell laptop

[Space Cadet]

i have installed mate successfully on several dell pcs and live in freebsd
mate.  i am a software developer in c++.

my compliments on freebsd and mate.

i did a normal  install on a laptop for the first time.  i did not check
the ps mouse box during install.

the system boots to the unix login.  i login and run startx which is my
habit on the pcs i use for work.  when i run startx on the laptop i do not
get a desktop or a mouse, i get
bands about 3/4 inch deep across the screen and the system locks up.

please advise.

thanks!
Tim Toomay