Microsoft Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse 3000 - Slate
by Microsoft
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List Price: Our Price: $13.50 You Save: $16.45 (55%) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Buy Used: from $6.95 (click here) Category: CE See more product details |
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Customers in the UK,
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Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Microsoft Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse 3000 - Slate
Customer Review: Perhaps the Ideal Laptop Mouse!
Summary: 5 Stars
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.
Customer Review: Amazing battery life
Summary: 5 Stars
I have both versions of this Microsoft wireless mouse - Winter Blue and Slate. Just in case you're wondering: they are identical except for the colors, so you might as well choose which ever one is on sale. Of course if you need two wireless mouses, then it is best to pick one of each color. This way you can ensure that when you operate both mouses in close proximity, their wireless transmitters will not interfer with each others.
What I found surprising is that this wireless mouse consumes very little power when it is in low-power standby mode. When you move the mouse around, the LED light brightens up, and current cunsumption jumps to about 25mA briefly. But once you stop moving the mouse, the current soon drops to only 0.4-0.5mA. Therefore you can expect a single AA alkaline cell (typically rated at 2800mAh under light load) to last for about six months, even if your never turn the mouse off. This kind of battery life is simply amazing.
If you want to use rechargeable battery in this mouse, make sure you choose the latest generation of "ready-to-use" low self-discharge cells (such as Sanyo Eneloop or Rayovac Hybrid). Don't even bother with older generation 2500mAh NiMH cells from Energizer or any other brands, because those cells will completely self-discharge within a few weeks.
One final remark: This mouse can be used under Windows XP without any software drivers. However, it is best to install the IntelliPoint 5.0 (or later) mouse driver from Microsoft. It gives additional customization features, plus a battery status monitor from your PC.
Customer Review: Still the best
Summary: 5 Stars
I got this mouse about a year ago. At the time, it was the best for ergonomics, portability and performance. After giving mine away to someone yesterday, I have been looking for a new one. I thought something better must have come along in a year but don't look like that is the case.
The Logitech V500 that hides the receiver completely inside looks promising because its low storage profile but its ergonomics is very poor. And, its high tech scroll panel is completely hopeless. If I wanted to use my finger tip to scroll, I can just use the touch pad on my laptop.
I also looked at the new MS 6000 laser laptop mouse. Looks promising and has the same ergonomics as my old mouse but the rubber keys just doesn't work. It seems that when MS put the rubber grip on top of the buttons, it completely destroyed the feel of a mouse button as you know it and expect. It takes significant effort to push the buttons and there is something else intangible about it as well. I actually have to think about how to push the button every time instead of just doing it.
May be I should wait for the new Logitech V400 but I am worried that its 2.4G will interfere with my WiFi like my old 2.4G cordless phone. I end up having to buy a new 5.8G cordless phone so my WiFi doesn't drop every time the phone rings.
I never experienced the on/off problem someone else complained about when you store the receiver. The only problem I had after a year is that the swivel part of the receiver became a little loose. I never had to turn it for better reception anyway so as long as it doesn't fall off, I am ok. So, it looks like I have to stick with this old mouse, again
Customer Review: Great design and features, simple set-up
Summary: 5 Stars
A mouse is such a basic computing tool it is easy to assume all such devices are pretty much the same. In other words, how much functionality is there in the first place to improve on? In the case of the BX3-0000x, apparently a lot.
First and foremost, there's the wireless feature, which follows the standard rule of less (wires) is more (ease of use). Then there is the smaller size, which increases mobility and storage value. Smaller isn't always better, of course. I have a micro MS mouse that I have used for close to a year, but it borders on being too small for my tastes. However, the size of the BX3-0000x is perfect as far as I'm concerned.
In judging most computing devices, the bottom line for me is usually how easy it is to set up and start using. No worries here. The "getting started" brochure is actually a waste of time and material, because with my Dell notebook and XP operating system, I simply plugged it in and never gave it a second thought.
What really sets this product apart is its strikingly simple and intuitive design. It starts with the wireless aspect (I will never use a wired tracking device again if I have any choice in the matter), the USB receiver that snaps into the bottom of the mouse when not in use (no more frantic groping around the bottom of my laptop case), and the power-saving feature that automatically turns off the battery when the receiver is attached.
At less than $30 with rebate on Amazon, this adds up to a great value purchase, too. The only problem is that both my daughters and my wife each want one now.
Customer Review: Ditto
Summary: 5 Stars
I really don't have much to add to what have been said by other reviewers... okay just couple of things:
1. I couldn't install this mouse on 98SE. I searched and found that problem installing USB human interface devices is quite common. Although some claimed success by copying the necessary drivers to the system but it wasn't the case for me. I suspect everything had to be right the first time when Windows is installed so you are really at the mercy of the computer manufacturer. If they didn't do it right you are going to face an uphill climb. With all that said, with XP all I had to do was plugging in the receiver. Hotswapping is no problem also.
2. My test indicates that the receiver is good within 3' and it doesn't matter if it is in a line of sight or not, i.e. it can be behind your computer if your port in the back.
3. I found this mouse to be the perfect size. It just hides in your palm. I really don't have to move my hand much to use this mouse. Very comfortable. I use this mouse exclusively. My other mouses are now at the tech toy grave.
4. Last but not least, Microsoft screwed me on the rebate! I submitted everything they asked but still they sent me a reject notice saying I didn't do this and that. BS in its purest form! It is only $5 and I sent all my originals, so it doesn't worth my time to fight it. So make copy of everything before you submit the rebate form. I am tempted to take away one star because of this, but fair is fair, this is a great mouse which deserve a 5 star rating.