How to Buy a Mouse
Whether you're buying a mouse for a home-built PC or replacing one that is wearing out or dead, you need to get a mouse that is compatible with your computer.
Steps:
1.) Buy a mouse with a rectangular serial connector if you have a very old PC.
2.) Get a mouse with a (round) PS/2 connector if you have a PC manufactured after 1994 (including all Pentium and newer computers).
3.) Buy a mouse with a USB connector if you have a PC that has available USB ports and you want a faster response from your mouse. All Pentium II and newer computers have USB ports.
4.) Choose a mouse with a round serial connector (also called Apple Desktop Bus, or ADB mouse) if you have a Macintosh with a mouse connector built into the keyboard.
5.) Select a mouse with a USB connector if you have a Macintosh with USB ports (G3 and newer machines). Make sure the package says the mouse is Mac-compatible.
6.) Buy a mouse with extra buttons for increased functionality and productivity.
7.) Look for a scroll wheel between the mouse buttons if you spend a lot of time using word-processing or spreadsheet applications or working on the Internet.
8.) Avoid replacing your mouse again by buying a mouse without a rubber ball. Expect to pay considerably more for the increased ease-of-movement, speed and durability.
9.) Compare the ergonomics of various mice. Look for a shape and size that is comfortable for your hand.
10.) Compare prices, which range from under $10 to more than $70 for varying levels of comfort and quality.
Tips:
1.) Many mice come with adapters that will convert PS/2 to serial or USB to PS/2.
2.) Expect a wireless mouse to work as well (and as poorly) as any other remote control. Buy one for action gaming or to accommodate a physical need.
3.) Clean your mouse before deciding it needs to be replaced. (See Related eHow.)
4.) Expect a mouse with a ball to last an average of 1 to 2 years.
How to Buy Accessories for a Computer
A mouse pad, a surge suppressor and floppy disks (or other removable disks) are essential computer accessories. The need for other accessories depends on your personal taste, physical needs, and desired desktop arrangement.
Steps:
1.) Buy a mouse pad with a durable, anti-peel, anti-static surface.
2.) Choose a mouse pad size that fits your desk and allows enough mouse movement for the types of software you and your family will use. Consider mouse pads with built-in wrist support for comfort and prevention of repetitive stress conditions. Some wrist supports are backed with Velcro, allowing you to remove them if you like.
3.) Get a wrist rest to use in front of your keyboard if it will add to your comfort. (If you type a lot, you will probably want one.)
4.) Read "How to Buy a Surge Suppressor" to learn the buying considerations for those. You must buy a surge suppressor.
5.) Get a 10-pack of name-brand floppy disks for a few dollars. Get Zip disks or recordable CDs if your computer has a built-in Zip or CD-R drive.
6.) Get a set of replacement printer cartridges to have on hand before you run out of ink.
7.) Buy paper for your printer. Read "How to Choose Paper for Your Printer" to learn the buying considerations.
8.) Consider storage boxes for removable disks. Get jewel boxes or cases with soft, protective backings to store CDs.
9.) Get cleaning supplies such as compressed air and Endust for Electronics or a non-abrasive household cleaning fluid suitable for cleaning plastic.
10.) Get a steel-framed or under-desk keyboard tray if your desk lacks a comfortable place to use your keyboard.
11.) Consider accessories that will improve your efficiency, such as a monitor clip or easel to hold paper.
12.) Consider accessories that might be necessitated by your physical setup, such as a longer telephone cable.
Tips:
1.) "Peripherals" (as opposed to accessories) are additional components to connect to your computer (such as a printer, external disk drives, a scanner, and so on).
2.) Use removable disks to frequently back up your documents. Never use your computer without backing up.
3.) Most people prefer soft (gel-filled, for example) wrist pads to firm ones.
Try any comfort-oriented accessories before you buy.