Mice
Mice (Mouse) for computers are very common pointing devices, that we depend on heavily for navigating the web, and use as an input device for applications and games.
I’m not talking about the Mice that eat cheese!
Mouse problems ... you can fix.
First, lets discuss the different types of Mice (mouses??)
PS-2 Mouse
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PS -2 Connector |
PS-2 connection |
The PS-2 mouse
The PS-2 mouse was very popular for a long time, and is still rather common. When they suddenly fail, it is often caused by a problem with the connection. By pulling out the connector, and putting it back in, (called “re-seating”) you are actually “cleaning’ the contacts. I usually will reseat the connector 2-3 times. You must re-boot the PC, after re-seating, as the mouse is “discovered” during boot-up only. If “reseating” doesn’t solve the problem, then replace the mouse. The connection failure is part of the motherboard, which is very expensive to replace!, So I usually use a USB mouse for replacement, or even wireless mouse/keyboard combination instead.
Older mice have a rubber ball in the bottom. While these work, you need to keep them clean, and I mean clean frequently, or they will cause you problems! You clean them by removing the "lint" from the rollers. You remove the rubber ball, then use you fingernail to remove what looks like a string around each roller. These "strings" are actually the cause for your bad mouse! Keep these rollers clean, and your mouse can work for years!
A USB mouse is much more common now, and some PC’s do not even have PS-2 connections. A USB mouse does not require a re-boot to be “discovered”. These are inexpensive, and easily installed. Windows XP normally does not require that a disk be used for installation.
I also carry a USB mouse for my laptop, as touch pads and my fingers do not get along together!
Logitech Optical Mouse
This is what I use, and I chose an example from TigerDirect. Check the link out, but you can buy at Walmart, Target, Staples, etc. Typical price is $ 10-20. The arrow is pointing at the infa-red light. An optical mouse with a USB connection is the best answer for mouse problems!
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| Optical Mouse -top |
Optical Mouse - bottom |
I also carry a USB mouse for my laptop, as touch pads and my fingers do not get along together!
Wireless Mouse (and keyboard)
Logitech Wireless Keyboard-Mouse combo
Wireless mouse and keyboards are becoming quite popular, and really cool! As the price is now reasonable. The most common cause for failure is “batteries!” The batteries don’t last long, (only a few months, in most cases). Another cause for failure is having the “receiver” too far from the keyboard of mouse. I keep mine on the desk, within 1-3 feet from my keyboard and mouse. Remember, the connection is “line of sight” infrared connection.
Mice - from Wikipedia includes description of gaming mice
Above Links to TigerDirect show that there are different size mice (smaller ones can be used for laptops (take less space in carrrying bag), but can also be used on desktops, if small is comfortable. Wireless is nice, but remember to keep spare batteries. Mine died every 3 months, so I finally switched back to USB wired mice. The gaming mouse provides extra controls used for games.
If this infomation was not enough, then call for help! ... Computer Support
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