Touch Mouse

Uh, the first mouse was released in 1983. That was 29 years ago, probably less as it's only january. Can you imagine if they'd never invented the mouse? We'd all still be sat here typing in DOS, or using a joystick or something.

And it's all Microsoft mice because this is MSN. Owned by Microsoft.

The development of the Mouse eventually resulted in this brilliant IBM engineering document -

Abstract: Mouse Balls Available as FRU (Field Replacement Unit)

Mouse balls are now available as FRU. Therefore, if a mouse fails to operate or should it perform erratically, it may need a ball replacement. Because of the delicate nature of this procedure, replacement of mouse balls should only be attempted by properly trained personnel.

Before proceeding, determine the type of mouse balls by examining the underside of the mouse. Domestic balls will be larger and harder than foreign balls. Ball removal procedures differ depending upon manufacturer of the mouse. Foreign balls can be replaced using the pop-off method. Domestic balls are replaced using the twist-off method. Mouse balls are not usually static sensitive. However, excessive handling can result in sudden discharge. Upon completion of ball replacement, the mouse may be used immediately.

It is recommended that each replacer have a pair of spare balls for maintaining optimum customer satisfaction, and that any customer missing his balls should suspect local personnel of removing these necessary items.

To re-order, specify one of the following:

P/N 33F8462 - Domestic Mouse Balls
P/N 33F8461 - Foreign Mouse Balls

I agree with some of the comments here, however, you need to be fair!

Of course Microsoft were not the inventers of the mouse. But, much to apple's dismay - Microsoft have made it big time, and Apple did not make it so big. I also wish there was another competing OS which was as good as windows which I did not have to run on a computer which looks like a coffee machine! I like Microsoft, and the flexibility and IBM based machines offers over the Mac. I can see this has become an Apple Vs Microsoft thing. But the truth is if apple had allowed their OS to run on older IBM based machines then they would have taken a larger amount of the market share, they have woken up recently and have at least started to use regular hardware like compatible RAM and Intel based Processors. Microsoft might not have invented the mouse, but they unfortunately now dominate the market,  something Apple should have addressed years ago!

We have 3 of the Microsoft Trackball Optical 1.0 devices. Much easier than a mouse and especially good if the desk is cluttered. Shame it isnt made any more :-(

Our children can use the trackball - even if they have to use both hands because its designed for adults. Mind you - they can use mice of any shape, a laptop style touch pad, the nib/pointer on the Media Centre keyboard and a mini trackball on a wireless keypad and touch screens.

The article is about 'Microsoft' mice,that is to say a 'PC' peripheral, not an expensive piece of hardware junk AKA a 'MAC',or should that be 'MAC' Donald's?

Most people still use a mouse,pens,touch screens et'c are all inferior to the mouse-keyboard combination,the keyboard of which I have always used since the earliest of days of 'DOS'sing around on a 'PC'.

A mouse is the most precise & fastest input device,which is why they are used by the best online gamers & for CAD work et'c.

Who the hell uses a 'mouse' in this day and age............I use the 'Pen'........a lot faster and more ergonomic. Get a Graphics pad.......durrrrrrr.​ x