Optical mouse and its device

Optical mouse is highly reliable, because it practically does not have any working parts and mechanical stuffing. For mechanics, you can only include a scroll wheel, as well as buttons. The first models, which had appeared long enough, were cumbersome, they needed a special mat with a smooth reflective surface and a mesh applied to work. They worked as follows: the LED at a certain angle directed the flow of light. Then the light reflected from the rug, fell on the light. During the movement, the beam fell on the grid line, so it was not reflected in those places. So the processor made conclusions about the movement of the mouse. This technology, in its operating principle, resembles an optomechanical mouse, only a light beam, but its reflection from the rug, gets to the light detector. The light breaker is a dark line on the rug, and not a disk with holes. The main advantage of such a device is that such an optical mouse does not need to be cleaned, almost does not wear out. However, in case of damage to the rug, the mouse had to be discarded, since it was impossible to buy such a rug separately.

The second generation had a more complex device. In the lower part, a special LED was installed, illuminating the surface on which the mouse moves. A miniature camera "took off" the surface in one second more than a thousand times, transmitting data to the processor, which made all the conclusions about the movements. Optical mouse of the second generation no longer needs a special rug. It is able to work on almost any surface, except mirror. In addition, they also do not require cleaning. Such models cost about 20 dollars apiece.

Accuracy of work

The accuracy of the operation is affected by a number of factors, the most important of which is the resolution, that is, the number of pixels that the focusing lens sees and the optical sensor during the movement. The higher the resolution, the more sensitive the mouse will be, the less it will be necessary to move it.

Previously, the wired model was much more sensitive than the wireless optical mouse, wireless technologies and optical sensors were being improved, the situation underwent significant changes.

Also, the accuracy is affected by the size of the optical sensor, the frequency of updates, the speed of image processing and the speed of movement.

Types of models

In the hardware stores you can find a variety of types of optical mice: from classic wired, wireless, to models made in the form of cars, ladybirds, joysticks, cursors and so on. There are even models with built-in microphone, click counters and foot mice. Pedal models perfectly respond to movement and allow clicking on the buttons with their feet. Not so long ago another novelty appeared on the market - an optical mouse on a finger. Such a device is put on the index finger. Controlled by the mouse due to the movement of one finger, which allows you to simultaneously use the mouse and keyboard. In addition, this model will be indispensable for work in situations where it is difficult to use a conventional model, for example, in transport, in confined spaces or when working with a tablet computer or laptop. This device is very light, it has a scroll wheel and two buttons. It connects to the USB connector and is able to work on any surfaces.

Rug choice

The best option for an optical mouse will be a mat, the coating of which is made of synthetic fabric, preferably monochrome, or a mat with a filling of silicone gel. Often, he additionally has a pincushion for the wrist, so it will be more convenient to work and less risk of joint diseases.