I think I've gone through three optical mice. With each one, when I plug it into the usb, the light stops coming on. Then my computer will say it has malfunctioned, and windows doesn't recognize it. I always try different USB ports, still nothing. Why is that that their life span is as bad as an insect?
2006-11-23 04:21:54 · 8 answers · asked by Catrina J 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Add-ons
That depends on a lot of factors. Are they a decent brand of product, for one. I'm using logitech, and have never had a problem with any product from that company. Secondly, if you installed the proper drivers, and installed them correctly. If your product was brand new or second hand, if your computer operating system has errors that aren't allowing it to recognize hardware properly, if your computer is compatible .. some older systems won't recognize newer, up to date hardware.
I highly doubt it's the mouse. If you've tried 3 and it still doesn't work, then you go with the common denominator ... either the computer or the user.
2006-11-23 04:26:17 · answer #1 · answered by Jaded 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You haven't heard the story of the three blind mice? (Sorry couldn't resist)
Actually, you did not mention what brand of mice you have been buying. Many people will get the cheapy ones from their local Wal-Mart or some other no-name brand.
I have a Microsoft wireless optical mouse and have had it for three years and no problems. Of course, I spent over $100 when I first bought it, and I keep having to replace the batteries every 30 days (I'm using rechargables and the PC is always on).
If you have a Logitech or Microsoft optical, it should last you, and I believe they offer warranties for the product of between 1 and 5 years, though not sure exactly what is covered.
I would recommend a rechargable wireless optical mouse. You can then take the mouse off the charger, use it without the cabling interfering, and then put back on the charger at night so it is ready for the next day. See the link I added below for an example.
Alternately, just get any wireless optical mouse that is a recognized name and use rechargable batteries in it. These are much less expensive ($30-50) and still give you both the convenience and reliability.
2006-11-23 04:41:19 · answer #2 · answered by SteveN 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am thinking that your computer's USB hardware may be to blame. Do you have problems with any other USB devices?
You can get a cheap USB 2.0 PCI card for about $10.
Also make sure you are installing the proper drivers that came with the mouse even if XP installs its own. Sometimes there are important differences between the manufacturer's driver and Microsoft's.
MikeC
2006-11-23 04:29:42 · answer #3 · answered by MikeC 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
USB ports only supply a limited amount of current to power connected devices, particularly with laptops. Solutions - fewer devices plugged in, obtain a powered USB hub or use a PS/2 mouse, if you have a socket for it. For existing USB mouse, you can get a USB to PS/2 converter plug. A cordless mouse will also use less USB current - but then the batteries go flat.
2006-11-23 06:02:13 · answer #4 · answered by ROY L 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My optical mouse worked for a while, but the software occasionally got stuck, and the problems got worse with time. I've gone back to rubber ball mouses.
2006-11-23 04:31:58 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your computer is not working properly while you are working on it, it could be a problem with device drivers, hardware or software.
Detailed instructions at http://tinyurl.com/yk5zpr
2006-11-23 13:09:36 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
What do you feed them?
sorry, couldnt resist!
2006-11-23 04:24:01 · answer #7 · answered by orlandobillybob 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
milk
2006-11-23 04:55:43 · answer #8 · answered by finalfantasylover22 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋