How To: Buy a mouse.

[Lyte]

So, I received this new Dell computer for my birthday (6 months ago) and only recently started using it. Yeah I know, “What took so long?!”... but the old one was like a very worn but very comfy slipper! The only reason I pulled the Dell out of its box was because my old PC finally crashed and couldn't be revived.

The first thing I decided I didn't like 'bout this new Dell was the mouse. Cheap! Now, you might think the easiest task in the world would be buying a new mouse but when I got to the electronics store there were a few things to consider… beyond personal preference. So, I thought I'd type up a lil something about "How To" buy a mouse.

For me the top three issues were...

1. Price, which ranged from $9.99 up to $60.00..., which I think, is kinda crazy! The more expensive ones naturally have more bells, whistles and comfort.

2. Functionality, like extra buttons on the side, for gaming and surfing and a scroll wheel, for maneuvering around spreadsheets and documents. I do a lot of work online and play a few games now and then and found my productivity (and demon kill score ) is greatly increased with a multi-function mouse.

3. Ergonomics, which means how comfy is the mouse in your hand.

Now on to more technical stuff…

If you have an older computer (before 1995) you're going to need one of those mice (mouses?) rectangular serial connector. New computers use that round one with lil prongs called a PS/2 connector.

There's a third type of connector called USB and most new (Pentium type) PCs have a USB port where you can plug in your mouse and other devises. The upside of the USB type of computer/mouse is that you'll get a faster response from your mouse.

Note: If you have a PS/2 mouse but want to plug it into a USB port, there’s a little converter thing that will let you do this. I have a USB hub but both my mouse, keyboard and speakers all have PS/2 connectors.

I was surprised to find those old rubber ball type mice were still available for purchase! That's the type that came with the Dell. Blah! They are slower and are prone to gathering dust within. Also, if you have a cat who likes to take over your work space you'll find the mouse coming to a dead halt within a week... crammed full o' cat hair! Grr! I prefer the laser light ones! I've not tried the cordless one's yet... any feedback on those??

Well, that’s my mouse venture! :p

ED

[Moby]

I prefer USB Optical mice.
I dont like the ball mice anymore! hehe

Plus, they are quite cheap.
Wireless mice tend to be quite heavy and batteries waste quickly.

Ps - Why did you buy a Dell and not build your own computer?!
Shame shame! :p

[Lyte]

Hey Moby,

Welcome to PC101!

Well, the Dell was a gift from my brother and it was the fastest way to go since my computer was making weird noises that turned out to be its last breaths! :p

In the old days... when we lived in the same state...he'd build me one from scratch... it is definately the best way to go!

Like most things (cars, houses, furnature, whatever) it's the labor that costs the most! It's much cheaper to buy the pieces and fix/put it together the thing yourself!

ED

[Peter]

Ahh Dells... yes I remember the days when I used to buy pre-made PC's.. no more though

yes of course its cheaper to put it together yourself. the people who that for others are laughing at how much they can charge for such a simple job!