Practically every computer has some type of mouse attached to it.
Since the first computer mouse was invented in the 60's by Douglas Englebart, a researcher at the Stanford Research Institute, a lot has changed. One of the latest advances in mouse technology is the move from roller-ball technology to the optical mouse. Optical mice don't have any moving parts, which makes them lighter with a longer usable lifespan. Nevertheless, few tools, if any, are perfect and the optical mice also have significant disadvantages to contend with.
Surface Issues
One of the few real issues with current optical mice is how they behave on certain surfaces. Unlike roller-ball mice, which were workable on practically any surface, as long as you didn't mind cleaning them every week, optical mice won't work on glossy or highly reflective surfaces. This means you will probably need a mouse pad if your desk is very shiny or made of glass because surface reflections interfere with the mouse's optics and make it unusable.
Speed
Optical mice are faster than all previous mice models. However, for many people this is a disadvantage because the increase speed makes it harder to control. Of course, you can control the sensitivity and speed of your mouse from within your operating system, but only if you know how.
Energy Use
Although the energy use of a mouse is minimal when compared to other hardware components, such as a printer or a monitor, optical mice consume more energy than the older roller-ball models. This is because optical mice are made entirely of static, electronic components which must be constantly switched on to work. In contrast, roller-ball mice used rubber balls to activate the sensor and required a lower energy expenditure.
Space
Optical mice solved many of the problems roller-ball mice had, but still require a relatively large desk-area to work. If you're using a laptop on an airplane, or while sitting on a deckchair, an optical mouse isn't practical. Most laptops come with a pointer mouse or a small joystick, so you can operate them without the need of a desk or other type of surface.
Tags: roller-ball mice, optical mice, optical mice, optical mouse