A computer mouse is the device that controls the cursor on the monitor. The core principle of the earlier versions is the mechanical movements on wheels attached to the outer case along with a rubber ball. The mouse moves on the surface of the pad and the rubber ball will facilitate the movement of wheels along with it. In the process the data of its movements will be transmitted to the computer. This original model of mechanical computer mouse is still in use despite the introduction of new models, as it is the cheapest mouse available in the market. The mouse in fact controls almost every operation of the computer.



The mechanical mouse develops problems when the base wheels get entangled with dust particles on the pad which in turn obstruct the functioning of the device. The user has to clean the mouse with cleansers whenever such problems occur. The same problem will persist if the mouse pad as well as the surrounding areas is not kept free from dust and dirt. The optical mouse is the subsequent development in the evolution of the technology. The rolling balls and wheels are eliminated in this version. The beam of light emits from the device which activates the mouse to offer direction and speed to the cursor. There is no mechanical part in this type of mouse and therefore the question of interference by dust etc does not arise. A very user friendly computer accessory, the optical mouse is easy to clean and maintain. It is considered as an accurate and very sensitive model than the mechanical mouse. But with a polished or shining pad surface, this type of mouse may develop problems and start giving wrong signals. The reason is that the sensors fail to function as it gets confused with the reflections emitted from the pad. Care should be taken to use a non-reflective or mouse friendly pad while using optical mouse.

The ultimate name in mouse category is the laser mouse. Laser beams radiation principle is adopted in this mouse instead of LED lights. It is very sensitive, accurate and efficient device. Used by those who are operating computers for highly skilled and most sensitive jobs, the laser mice are very effective and user friendly. More and more computer users prefer them notwithstanding the cost factor. However it is an energy efficient device, which consumes lesser electricity than other types of mice.

The Opto mechanical mouse is a combination of both mechanical and optical versions. Categorised on the basis of DPI resolutions, wiring etc a few more types of mice are also available in the market. Wireless models use radio signals instead of cables to get connected with the computer. But they are expensive.

In the ever expanding computer market, there are innumerable models of mice to cater the needs of the diverse strata of users. The cost of devices depends on the features or technology adopted in their production. Internet users can easily get access to the world of computers and accessories which is steadily evolving in a competitive environment.