After upgrading to Kubuntu Natty, I no longer have the problem.
The KDE Input Settings/Touchpad KControl Module (which seems largely redesigned) allows reconfiguration and correctly reports the device as AlpsPS/2 ALPS GlidePoint.
This is on a Sony Vaio VPCEB1M1E laptop.
After upgrading to Kubuntu Natty, I no longer have the problem.
The KDE Input Settings/Touchpad KControl Module (which seems largely redesigned) allows reconfiguration and correctly reports the device as AlpsPS/2 ALPS GlidePoint.
This is on a Sony Vaio VPCEB1M1E laptop.