Laser mouse: device, features, characteristics

Since the invention of the computer manipulator type "laser mouse" has passed a huge 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 an LED. And in the end, the latter was replaced by a more accurate and less energy-intensive laser.

On top of everything, 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 coloring, 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 working element consists of three parts:

• A miniature semiconductor laser ;
• Optical sensor in the form of a flat matrix;
• Signal microprocessor, capable of recognizing changes in images.

The laser mouse differs from the optical one according to the following characteristics:

• Accuracy. The laser device is capable of delivering up to 20 times more data on the surface scanning area.
• Has low power consumption and allows you to store batteries with wireless connections.
• Does not glow in the dark. Perhaps, it is not so important, but sometimes additional illumination allows to judge the working condition of the device.
• Thanks to the properties of the laser allows you to work even on a mirror surface.

The main and main drawback of laser mice is their high cost. An alternative solution in calculating the benefits of purchasing a wireless device variant can be made with the calculation of battery savings.

Features when selecting a mouse

Coming to the computer store, many buyers are faced with the problem of choice among the widely presented variety of manufacturers and models of electronic devices. Determining the purchase will be much easier, if you decide in advance what the characteristics of the laser mouse should be. First of all, these are the technical characteristics:

• Materials of the case. Here, plastic, metal, rubber, or combinations of these materials can be used.
• Type of mouse. Wired or wireless - the solution lies in the convenience of servicing the additional power of the device.
• Sensor resolution. On average, the resolution of the sensor in 2000 dpi should provide comfortable use of the mouse. For gaming computers, you can purchase a device with higher characteristics of this parameter.
• 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 versions.
• Ability to choose the operating mode of the sensor. Allows you to work on your speed limits in different applications or to quickly reconfigure in case of changing the user of the computer.
• Availability of additional software. Modern device-manipulators basically do not need to install drivers. However, some manufacturers, along with their product offer a set of programs and utilities to facilitate the settings of the mouse or additional bonuses.
• Interface for connecting to a computer and the availability of adapters. Currently, the equipment is focused mainly on the connection via USB 2.0. But cheaper, older models with other plug-in options may come across.

In addition to technical characteristics, the laser mouse can differ in size, design, ergonomics. Here the best option is to try it on the spot, feel how it is located in the palm of your hand, whether it moves freely, whether all buttons are easily accessible, how double clicks pass or how the wheel rotates. As an example of high-quality models of laser mice can be noted A4Tech X-750F, OClick 765L, Logitech MX400, Genius Ergo555, Genius Ergo525 and Lexma AM530 (MPE).