A mouse is an important part of the average computer system, allowing the user to interact with the screen in front of them. A computer mouse may seem like a straightforward tool, but there are actually many different technologies, which make up the various types. The original computer mice had a mechanical design, but these days there are mice that navigate using optics and wireless technology.
Here are some of the main mouse designs:
- Mechanical– These mice were the original design used with computers. They are much less common now, but are still sold in some places. They contain a physical ball on the underside of the mouse that can move in any direction. The mouse point movement on the screen corresponds with the ball movement inside the mouse. Typically they are used in combination with mouse pads, in order to create greater resistance between the mouse ball and surface that it rests on. The major disadvantage of these mice is that they tend to lose sensitivity over time. It’s easy for lint and other debris to become lodged in the mouse, and disrupt the smooth movement of the ball. The precision of these mice is fine for basic computer work, but they are not sufficient for serious graphic design work or gaming.
- Trackball– This kind of mouse follow the same general idea as the mechanical mouse. However, instead of having the rolling ball on the underside of mouse, it is placed on the top. The user manipulates the ball with their fingers in order to move the on-screen pointer. With this style of mouse, you’re able to keep your arm and hand in one place as you use it. It’s also possible to improve precision when navigating the mouse ball with fingers instead of your hand and wrist. Unlike the original mechanical mouse, a mouse pad is unnecessary since the ball does not come in contact with the surface it rests on. The trackball model of mouse is also not very popular any more.
- Optical– The optical mouse is a more recent invention. Instead of detecting movement using a physical ball-roller system, the optical design uses a beam of light and an optical sensor. This style of mouse requires less maintenance, as there is no mouse ball to clean. The optical design also allows this style of mouse to be significantly lighter than the mechanical mouse. The optical mouse allows for more precision, as well.
- Laser– The laser mouse is the most recent design available on the market. It follows the same idea as the optical mouse, but uses a very narrow beam of light (a laser) instead of the wide beam. This design is even more sensitive than the optical mouse, which makes it great when precision is necessary. Gamers find that the laser mouse works well for their purposes.
Besides the basic design, there are a number of features to look at when choosing a computer mouse. The components of the mouse, as well as the performance are both important if you want to find the best option. Here are some of the main features:
- Buttons – The majority of computer mice incorporate two or three buttons into their design. However, there are a limited few that contain more. Multiple buttons may be incorporated so the user can program various common functions into different buttons for ease of access. While this could be beneficial to the avid computer user, two is usually enough for the average person.
- Scroll Wheel – A computer mouse will often include a scroll wheel between the two main buttons. This allows users to scroll up and down web pages, and other documents efficiently. The scroll wheel also typically acts as a third button. It can be pressed to activate processes in many different programs. Sometimes, you will also get the option to scroll from left to right, in addition to up and down. This is useful if you need to navigate around large documents or images.
- Performance – The sensitivity of a computer mouse is often measured in term of dots per inch (DPI), which is the amount the mouse pointer moves with every inch the physical mouse is moved. A typical sensitivity or resolution is about 800 dpi. Gamers in particular want good mouse sensitivity so it has good reaction time. However, a lower sensitivity works fine for many other applications.
- Ergonomics – A good ergonomic mouse shape could make it more comfortable to use, especially if you’re using it a lot. It could also reduce your chance of developing muscle and wrist disorders due to a poorly designed mouse.
- Wiring — There are both wired and wireless mice available. These days, the most common kind of wired mouse connects via USB. Wireless mice use a few different kinds of technology, such as radio signaling and Bluetooth. They allow for greater freedom of movement, and reduce clutter.