optical mice
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Logitech Cordless MouseMan Optical Mouse The following report compares gadgets using the SERCount Rating (base on the result count from the search engine). |
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POPULAR HAT - 2006-02-13 11:22:00 | © Copyright 2004 - www.hat.net () | sitemap | top |
Like previous cordless mice, the new MouseMan comes in two parts: the mouse itself, a bit chunkier (5.3 ounces) than most due to two onboard AA batteries, and a half-mouse-sized radio receiver that plugs into your computer's USB or, via a supplied adapter, PS/2 port. (It's compatible with Windows 98, Me, 2000, and Mac OS 8.6 or later systems.)
The toughest part of installing the Optical was ripping open its impregnable cardboard package. The receiver has a four-foot cord, which we didn't bother uncoiling (though Logitech suggests you put the device at least 8 inches from your computer, monitor, or other electromagnetic emitter). The first time you start up the mouse, you need to push a "connect" button on the receiver and -- using a paper clip or letter opener -- one on the bottom of the mouse. After that, you're free to lean back and point and click; we strolled 10 to 15 feet from the PC without losing control, although once the receiver did lose the signal we had to walk all the way back to our desk to reestablish connection.
The reason optical mice haven't hitherto been cordless, or vice versa, is power consumption: An optical sensor similar to a scanner or digital camera takes a picture of the surface beneath the mouse 1,500 times per second, comparing pictures to detect mouse movement. Logitech says it teamed with Agilent Technologies to create a new optical chip that instantly, automatically shifts in and out of various power-saving modes (flickering between 1,500, 100, 10, and 2 flashes per second) as you move the mouse, click a button, or leave it idle. This yields battery life (checkable on a handy gauge in Windows' system tray) that the company estimates at three months from two disposable AA alkalines.
After some of the "Look, Ma, I'm ergonomic" swoops, tailfins, and light-up logos of recent mice, it's refreshing to report that the Cordless MouseMan Optical is mouse-shaped -- a conventional, comfortable oval with a slightly convex left side and rubber grip that cushions your thumb (your right thumb, that is; lefties are out of luck).
I highly recomend this item to everyone (that is right handed unfortunately)...