I've had this mouse for a couple of weeks and am very satisfied with it. There was no software installation. I simply plugged the wireless receiver into an available USB port, put a "AA" size battery in the mouse, and turned on the computer. The mouse started working just as Windows XP finished loading.
It may be a little small for really large hands, but it fits my hand (medium-size male) perfectly with my palm resting on a mouse pad for comfort. In fact, it feels better than most I've had in the past (desktop or laptop). And the mouse fits into a side packet of a laptop case very nicely. As others have pointed out, the USB receiver fits into the bottom of the mouse when traveling.
The buttons are shapped well, as are the rubber side grips. The two large buttons feel solid, but the center scroll button is a little noisy and doesn't feel as well made. But, that center button works as well as the other two.
Since I've only had it a couple of weeks, I don't know how long the "AA" battery will last yet. However, I'm using my laptop mainly as a desktop, used many hours each day, and the original battery is still going strong. To insert the battery, press the silver button directly below the "Microsoft" logo and the top pops off (the release button is designed to look decorative). At that point, one will immediately see the battery holder.
The wireless feature works flawlessly. In fact, if one had really good eyes, one could operate the computer from the other side of a room. Yes, I've actually tried that, with the mouse moving the cursor around the screen with no problems.
I just read one of the other reviews where a lag was mentioned. I've seen nothing of this. In fact, after reading that review, I sat here moving the mouse slowly, quickly, tiny movements, short movements, long movements, and so on, with no noticeable lag. The cursor moves exactly as the mouse moves.
All in all, I think anyone would be satisfied with this mouse.
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UPDATE: I wrote the above in February 2005 and have continued to use the mouse since (now Aug 2006). It is still performing well and the battery mentioned in the review above lasted through about 2.5 months of routine everyday use. I have since purchased a second mouse for my desktop computer, which is also working fine after about four months. The following is in response to issues raised by other reviewers.
To Edwin A. Pell III (New York), the mouse fits identically in either a left or right hand. To reverse the buttons, open the "Mouse" control panel and select "other pointing devices" in the drop-down menu listing your laptop's touchpad.
Again, to anyone wanting to ADJUST MOUSE SETTINGS, use the "other pointing devices" selection in the "Mouse" control panel.
To A. Mazakov (Fairfax, VA), the mouse is not sealed shut. The screws are located under the four black adhesive feet on the bottom of the mouse. Pry the feet off with a knife and stick them back on when finished with your modification.
To Denis Dolgachev (Ann Arbor, MI), you do not have to disconnect the mouse each night. The mouse enters a battery saving mode when no movement is detected for some time, allowing batteries to last upwards of two to three months (depending on usage) with a continous connection. In other words, you really only need to disconnect the mouse when you want to move or store the computer.
Those mentioning lags, delays, or choppy movement should check the "Mouse" control panel settings or for things interfering with USB devices. When setup and operating properly, there is no latency behavior whatsoever with this mouse. Movements are fine and precise. The only normal delay is in the split second when the mouse recovers from the battery saving mode after periods of inactivity. Microsoft Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse 3000 - Slate
I'm a computer junkie, i have to admit that I fall for every gadget and gimmick that comes along when it comes to computer hardware. This was no exception. I recently picked up a new laptop and thought i'd compliment it with a new mouse. Whilst shopping, I noticed this little fellow on sale and thought what a great idea... the usb transmitter snaps in to the bottom of the mouse (also shuts it off so its not burning up the battery). Unfortunately the store that I spotted it at had sold out! I asked the clerk and he said the things were flyin off the shelves. Figured it must be worth a look so I went a few doors down to a competitor and found one.
Great thing about buying hardware from the evil empire (Microsoft), is that it pretty much all works without downloading new drivers. Plugged the USB transmitter in, snapped the included single AA battery in the mouse (its located under the top cover btw if you dont like reading instructions like me), and it fired to life. Nice smooth tracking, worked on all surfaces i tested except for the actual screen of my laptop.. hehe
All I cared about was to have an ultra-portable mouse that was wireless and worked well. I got the great bonus of, good price, easy to install, great function, perfect compatability. If it had two tumb buttons for fwd/back on web browsing, i'd write microsoft a thank you letter.
My second wireless optical moue after Logitech 931152-0403 Cordless Optical Mouse. Much better than the Logitech mouse as it lighter and "soft"buttons.
Highly recommended for laptops. Even though it has a "connect" button, never had to use it. Just plug and play installation. No need to download/install drivers. Used it with Win 2000 and Win XP.
Pros ::
* Solid responsive mouse
* Soft buttons
* Cordless so no tangled wires around you
* Optical so can be used on ( just about ) any surface
* Small USB receiver
* * Used it, without any issues, with my wireless internet connection
* Easy to replace batteries
* Single AA battery
Cons ::
* Might be small for a person with large hands &/or long fingers
* NO carrying case. Even though the adapter fits *in* the mouse. It could help to have a carrying case as well.
* Not aware of any way to program the "buttons" ( for "left handed" persons ) - Microsoft Wireless Mouse - Laptop Mouse - Microsoft - Mouse'
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