We’re here to help you!

We're here to help you buy a new Mouse. We've got advice and information about all the latest Mice, from the smallest models up to the massive gamer ones. We also discuss the various Types, Technologies and Styles.

The mouse is one the most used input device, so it is important to get a mouse you are comfortable with. Mice are divided in more than 2 types of movement technology. (see Link list on the right)

• What are technological differences?
• Mechanical
• Optical
• Corded or Cordless
• What are feature differeces?
• Number of Buttons
• Scroll wheel
• Interface differences?

Types of mice

Mechanical mice

works on the principle of using a rubber ball which when the mouse is moved transfers the movement to 2 rollers with small holes on their ends. An infrared beam is passed thought the discs and a pair of infrared detectors calculates the speed and direction the mouse is moving by the pattern of interruptions in the beam. This information is then passed on to the computer.

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Optical mice

works on a much simpler principle. Firstly they differ from mechanical mice by having no mechanical parts. They operate on the system of using a light pad, which has a grid of lines on it. Then when the mouse is moved the pattern of how the light is broken when reflected of the surface on which the mouse is being used and passed though the lines determine the speed and direction of the mouse. With an optical mouse a mouse mat is not necessary, any non-reflective surface can be used.

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Corded or Cordless

Mice are also divided in to two more categories, with cord and cordless. Mice with a cord connect to the computer via the cord. Cordless mice use radio waves to connect the mouse to a receiver that is connected to the computer. Cordless mice are more convenient to use, but are more expensive and some require batteries.

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Features

Scroll wheel

Also some mice come with a scroll wheel that is usually positioned between the top two buttons on the mouse. It used to scroll up and down on pages in a document, or on Internet pages, etc. It is usually a plastic or rubber wheel which when rolled up or down, transfers the movement to computer that performs the corresponding scrolling action on the application that is being used.

Number of buttons

Another important consideration is the number of buttons on the mouse. Apple provides only one Mouse button. Most come with 2 or 3 buttons, which are all that are needed to perform all the basic function required from a mouse. But some have more buttons that can be programmed within the software supplied with the mouse to perform additional functions, i.e. a double click or go back function.

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Interface

Mice can be connected to the computer via 3 different types of interface, PS/2 (5 pin round socket) and Serial (9 pin trapezoid socket) are more the older one. More common is the USB connection(a small flat 4 pin socket). Make sure the mouse you purchase has connector that is compatible with the mouse socket on your computer.

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