Mouse/Pointing Devices
Choosing a mouse seems easy — you just need something to move the cursor around the screen, right? Well, some mice can do more — like performing tasks you used to do using the keyboard. And did you know that there are smaller mice for smaller hands? Read on to learn about all the neat features they're building into mice these days... and to figure out which mouse is best for you.
Size and Contour
People often don't realize that mice may come in different sizes. Smaller mice are available as accessories for notebook users, who are constrained to small desks or tray tables — but these also work nicely for users with smaller hands. When purchasing your mouse, make sure it fits comfortably in your hand. (There are even miniature-sized mice for kids.)
Try to avoid mice with a "contoured" or asymmetrical grip; recent studies have shown that symmetrical mice are a better choice. Mice with a slightly wider base may help improve your grip on the mouse and your comfort while using it.
Features
Consider a mouse with multiple buttons. These extra buttons (some are customizable) let the mouse perform certain keystrokes, lessening the amount you have to do by hand, thereby lessening the risk of Repetitive Stress Injuries. If you surf the Web or edit long documents, you may want to try a mouse with a scroll wheel. Scrolling with a wheel instead of the entire mouse can help reduce repetitive arm motions and their resulting discomfort (but beware — this may lead to discomfort in your fingers!).
Another helpful feature to be aware of is optical technology. Optical mice use optical sensors to determine your mouse position. Since there's no ball, it can't get dirty and can't make it more difficult to move your mouse.
And for even more freedom, choose a wireless mouse. The wireless technology in these mice eliminate the need for cords, so you'll have a wider range of movement.
Alternatives
Remember, there are alternatives to the traditional mouse. If you're experiencing shoulder pain, using a trackball may help. Trackballs let you move the cursor while keeping your arm in a fixed position, thereby minimizing arm motion. If you're experiencing pain you think might be related to mouse use, consult a physician immediately.
Mouse/Pointing Devices
Choosing a mouse seems easy — you just need something to move the cursor around the screen, right? Well, some mice can do more — like performing tasks you used to do using the keyboard. And did you know that there are smaller mice for smaller hands? Read on to learn about all the neat features they're building into mice these days... and to figure out which mouse is best for you.
Size and Contour
People often don't realize that mice may come in different sizes. Smaller mice are available as accessories for notebook users, who are constrained to small desks or tray tables — but these also work nicely for users with smaller hands. When purchasing your mouse, make sure it fits comfortably in your hand. (There are even miniature-sized mice for kids.)
Try to avoid mice with a "contoured" or asymmetrical grip; recent studies have shown that symmetrical mice are a better choice. Mice with a slightly wider base may help improve your grip on the mouse and your comfort while using it.
Features
Consider a mouse with multiple buttons. These extra buttons (some are customizable) let the mouse perform certain keystrokes, lessening the amount you have to do by hand, thereby lessening the risk of Repetitive Stress Injuries. If you surf the Web or edit long documents, you may want to try a mouse with a scroll wheel. Scrolling with a wheel instead of the entire mouse can help reduce repetitive arm motions and their resulting discomfort (but beware — this may lead to discomfort in your fingers!).
Another helpful feature to be aware of is optical technology. Optical mice use optical sensors to determine your mouse position. Since there's no ball, it can't get dirty and can't make it more difficult to move your mouse.
And for even more freedom, choose a wireless mouse. The wireless technology in these mice eliminate the need for cords, so you'll have a wider range of movement.
Alternatives
Remember, there are alternatives to the traditional mouse. If you're experiencing shoulder pain, using a trackball may help. Trackballs let you move the cursor while keeping your arm in a fixed position, thereby minimizing arm motion. If you're experiencing pain you think might be related to mouse use, consult a physician immediately.