Computer Mice Design: Evolve Gears, Lose Tails

Computer Mice Design Evolve Gears Lose Tails
If you're still pointing and clicking with the factory-issued mouse that came with your computer — or, heaven forbid, if you're still using your laptop's barbaric touch pad — it's time to upgrade.

A new generation of cordless mice debuts this month, featuring lasers and rechargeable batteries. They even provide a modicum of relief to carpal tunnels and aching fingers.

Eat your hearts out, co-workers.

The sleek new gizmos that now pass for computer mice look more like miniature spaceships or palm-sized remote controls than gray rodents whose roller balls choke on dust — even if they do set you back at least $50.

I tried two new models from Logitech, the Swiss technology giant that has sold more than 500 million mice since 1981. Doug Engelbart, who invented the mouse in 1962, still maintains an office at Logitech's office park in Fremont, Calif.

My favorite was the $80 MX1000 Laser, billed as the world's first commercial laser mouse.

It comes with a built-in, rechargeable lithium-ion battery that requires a recharge every three weeks in its docking station. It works with Windows 98 or Macintosh OS X or newer operating systems and requires a USB or PS/2 port.

The MX1000 tracks movements using Agilent Technologies' short-wavelength laser instead of a typical optical mouse's light-emitting diode, making the MX10