Microsoft's Wireless Optical Mouse Blue features the best of all worlds--no cord, no ball, and comfort that is almost legendary with Microsoft mice. Two recently introduced mouse technologies come together in this mouse. As the name suggests, it uses a low-power wireless link to transmit its movements to Windows or the Mac OS--the device is compatible with both platforms. The mouse also has no ball, instead using a high-intensity LED and optical sensor to detect movement.
While primarily a USB device, this mouse can also be used with the supplied converter with an older PS/2 mouse port. It connects into most Windows-based PCs without need for separate drivers. Plug it in, Windows sees it, and within a few seconds it's controlling the screen pointer. It is compatible with Windows 98 and later.
Two AA batteries (included) power the Wireless Optical Mouse Blue's optical sensor. The mouse effectively takes a series of pictures of whatever surface it's moved over--no mouse pad necessary--comparing each with the previous one to detect motion. The use of an optical sensor means the only moving parts on the mouse are its two buttons and its clear scroll wheel. The "blue" in the mouse's name describes the sides and back of its body and an inset around the scroll wheel. Its top surface is silver.
The mouse has a good range--we were able to get a response from the screen pointer at a distance of over 10 feet. It communicates with a small, oval receiver, also supplied, which draws its power from the USB or PS/2 socket into which it's plugged. --Simon Williams, Amazon.co.uk
