First Look: Microsoft Arc Mouse

View this article at: http://www.macnn.com/articles/08/10/09/arc.mouse/

Thursday, Oct 09, 2008 4:50pm

First Look: Microsoft Arc Mouse

Laptop computers must rely on trackpads to save space. While many people are perfectly happy using a trackpad, many more prefer using a mouse for greater control and comfort. Carrying an ordinary desktop mouse can be cumbersome due to its size and cord length, while special mice for laptops are often compressed in size to make them easier to carry. If you prefer to use a mouse with your laptop without making any compromises, consider Microsoft’s Arc Mouse.

Unlike most laptop mice, this product is as full size as a typical desktop mouse (4.44 inches long vs. 4.33 inches for Apple’s Mighty Mouse). Instead of a cord that can get tangled up or restrict its placement, this device includes a wireless transmitter that plugs into the USB port of your computer. Two AAA batteries (included with the product) can power it up to six months. As soon as the batteries need changing, a red battery indicator lights up in the middle of the mouse so you can’t miss seeing it.