The computer mouse has definitely made a long journey since its inception in 1964. This input device is used for pointing and function selection. It is necessary for convenient and efficient work and play. These days it is not only used for pointing the cursor but can control almost any aspect of the PCs operation.
Computer mice are of four types - Mechanical, Optical, Laser and Trackball. Mechanical mice are the traditional ball models that are bulky and require cleaning from time to time for efficient performance. Dirt and small particles can get caught up in between the rollers and has to be cleaned using cotton and a solution. The optical mouse, however, do not function in this way and have no rollers or balls. They use an LED and sensor (unlike the ball model) to detect movement and hence dirt does not get trapped in. The modern ones use laser light instead of an LED and these give top level performance. TrackBall mouse is one in which a prominent tracking ball that reduces hand movement (thumb and finger alone involved) is provided and functions very accurately. However this type is less common.
The connection modes for mouse are - wireless or wired. The wireless variety requires a wireless receiver that has to be connected to the computer. These are ideal for portables and notebooks. There are two technologies in use bluetooth (with operating range of about 30 to 60 feet) and RF (uses radio frequency and operating range is 15 to 30 feet) Hand orientation may be symmetrical or specific, and the symmetrical one is recommended. Wired mice are connected via electric cables to either the USB or PS/2 interface whereas the wired types require AA or AAA batteries. The bluetooth mouse are similar to most wireless varieties but unlike them, these are connect to the system via bluetooth and therefore do not block valuable USB ports.
The other specifications that need attention are the buttons and wheels. USB and PS/2 ports are the commonly used interfaces. While some mice come with 2 buttons and a wheel for scrolling in the middle, some Mac mice do not have the scrolling wheel control. Some mice are specifically designed and used for gaming purposes alone are available as wireless, wired or Bluetooth. Logitech, Microsoft, Kensington are a few top names that manufacture computer mice.
Visit Computer Mouse website to find best buys, compare prices and read reviews on Logitech and Kensington Computer Mouse Reviews.
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