Since the invention, the computer mouse-type manipulator has gone a long evolutionary path from a wooden box on two wheels to a device with an electromagnetic ball and rollers inside. Then the mechanism was replaced by an optical sensor and LED. And finally, the latter was replaced by a more accurate and less energy-intensive laser.
To top it all, her tail was taken away, replacing it with a bluetooth connection. So there was a wireless laser mouse. Now it is a miniature ergonomic design, with attractive shapes and colors, light weight, extraordinary sensitivity and indispensability in working with a computer or laptop.
Laser mouse device
The laser mouse with its device resembles an optical design. The main work item consists of three parts:
- miniature semiconductor laser ;
- optical sensor in the form of a flat matrix;
- signal microprocessor capable of recognizing image changes.
A laser mouse differs from an optical mouse in the following characteristics:
- Accuracy. The laser device is capable of delivering up to 20 times more data on the surface scan area.
- It has low power consumption and saves batteries with wireless connections.
- Does not glow in the dark. Maybe this is not so important, but sometimes the additional backlight allows you to judge the working status of the device.
- Thanks to the properties of the laser, it allows you to work even on a mirror surface.
The main and main disadvantage of laser mice is their high cost. An alternative solution when calculating the benefits of acquiring a wireless version of the device can be made with the expectation of battery savings.
Features when choosing a mouse
Arriving at a computer store, many buyers are faced with the problem of choosing among a wide variety of manufacturers and models of electronic devices. It will be much easier to decide on a purchase if you decide in advance what characteristics a laser mouse should have. First of all, these are technical specifications:
- Case materials. Here, plastic, metal, rubber, or options for combining these materials can be used.
- Type of mouse. Wired or wireless - the solution is the convenience of tinning the device’s additional power.
- Sensor Resolution An average sensor resolution of 2000 dpi should ensure comfortable use of the mouse. For gaming computers, you can purchase a device with higher characteristics of this parameter.
- The number of buttons. Here the choice depends on the user. If he intends to use the keyboard with the mouse, then you can select fewer buttons. And if it is assumed that the laser mouse can completely replace other input devices, then there are 7-8 button options.
- Ability to select the sensor operating mode. Allows you to work at their high-speed modes in various applications or quickly reconfigure in case of a change in computer user.
- Availability of additional software. Modern manipulator devices generally do not need to install drivers. However, some manufacturers along with their product offer a set of programs and utilities to facilitate mouse settings or additional bonuses.
- Interface for connecting to a computer and the presence of adapters. Currently, the equipment is mainly focused on connecting via USB 2.0. But cheaper, outdated models with other plug-in options may come across.
In addition to technical characteristics, a laser mouse can differ in size, design, ergonomics. Here, the best option would be to try it in place, to feel how it is located in the palm of your hand, whether it moves freely, whether all buttons are easily accessible, how double clicks go, or how the wheel rotates. An example of high-quality laser mouse models is the A4Tech X-750F, OClick 765L, Logitech MX400, Genius Ergo555, Genius Ergo525 and Lexma AM530 (MPE).