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Fanatec Head$h0t gaming mouse reviewed
With case modding so prevalent these days that gamers are often judged by the the number of LEDs they manage to cram into their rigs as opposed to the actual performance of their machines, pairing a tricked out system with accessories that lack equally gaudy illumination (like a Razer, Logitech, or -- shudder -- Fatal!ty mouse) simply won't cut it. Well a company called Fanatec is fully aware that blinding light shows are now as much a part of fragging as gimmicky keyboards and chainsaw-shaped controllers, which is why it's poised to release the $100, fully-customizable Heäd$sh0t gaming mouse. (We apologize for the lack of an umlaut in the headline; it's due to our quirky blogging platform and has nothing to do with our feelings about umlaut-heavy languages.) At first glance the Heäd$sh0t might seem a little intimidating: instead of plugging it directly into your PC, you have to swing the tangle-minimizing USB cord over a glowing arch and attach it to the back of the included mousepad / USB hub (which, according to Fanatec, has been specially designed to to interact as smoothly as possible with the mouse's glide pads). Other special features include adjustable width (though no adjustable weighting -- c'mon, guys), a huge "wing" on the right side meant to keep your fingers from dragging, and a software suite that lets you record macros, tweak the million on-board lights, and even turn the bulky rodent into a fairly-functional joystick. During their test drive, the team at Trusted Reviews found the device to work quite well -- mostly due to its 2,000dpi laser sensor -- although they thought that the top-mounted buttons were somewhat difficult to access, and joystick mode can't be used to manipulate the Z-axis. Oh, and they weren't really fond of all the lights -- go figure.
HP researchers patent foot activated user interface
Nevermind those fancy thought-based biometric systems and brain controlled computers, as a clever group of inventors have patented a foot-activated user interface that can bring mousing abilities to those without hands / arms (or a suitable amount of dexterity). Three blokes working for HP's UK operation have developed a prototype in which humans can use their feet in order to mimic cursor movements more traditionally handled by the keyboard's right-hand man. A magnetic sensor is affixed to one foot, while a transmitter emitting "pulsed magnetic signals" is clipped onto the other, and as the pulsating foot wiggles about, the relative distance and position is calculated and converted into cursor movements on screen. The designers have suggested that "twists" could be understood as "right / left clicks," while "sliding atop the ground" could be translated as "dragging and dropping." Aside from adding newfound utility to disabled individuals who'd like to get their frag on, the team has visions of creating the ultimate multitasker by "keeping the hands free" for handling phone calls and TV dinners while operating a "wearable computer" with their legs. While the folks at HP kick around the idea of releasing this on the market, we'll be sharpening our foot-eye coordination skills in tense anticipation.[Via New Scientist Tech]
Sigma's Rotino: "world's smallest" laser travel mouse
In a refreshing reversal of pompously named colors, we bring you Sigma's Rotino laser mouse in, uh, "gross black." Sure, that's probably just a machine translation snafu but who are we to argue with the lingual powers of the almighty Google? Oh, and as long as you're here, you might like to know that Sigma calls Rotino the "world's smallest" laser mouse with retractable USB cable. Measuring in at 40-grams / 30 x 70 x 20-mm the Rotino brings an adjustable sensitivity of 1000dpi for normal office-type use or a lightning-quick 2,000dpi for you gamers with an especially sensitive trigger finger. At just ¥2,980 or about $25, can you really afford not to have this in your laptop bag? Also available in French blue or Italian lead-lead (aka, red) if you're feeling euro-funky.[Via Impress]
Buffalo's BOMU-IL USB mouse has disco fever
If you've been tirelessly searching for a well-lit mouse to shake its tail across that EverGlide LED dance floor mouse pad, Buffalo is putting the funk right where you need it. The BOMU-IL series mice come in two ultra-ordinary colors (black and white), but when plugged into your computer's USB port, the light show begins. Each mouse sports a different seven color rotation for your own personal memorization, while both share an 800dpi optical sensor, retractable USB cable, right / left click buttons, a smooth scroll wheel, and a symmetrical design that caters to righties and southpaws alike. The perfect input device to queue up those Parliament playlists will be hitting stores in October for ¥3,320 ($29).[Via Impress]
Germ Free Wireless Laser Mouse will kill micro-organisms
If you're the type of person who keeps a bottle of hand sanitizer within reach at all times, then this is surely the perfect product for you. IOGEAR has just released the Germ Free Wireless Laser Mouse, a cordless USB device coated with a "titanium dioxide and silver nano-particle compound" to take down nearly all bacteria, viruses, fungi or even algae (huh?) from surviving on your mouse. If killing microscopic bugs wasn't enough, this mouse uses a "Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser" (um, ok) that purports to provide "30x more tracking power" (however that's measured), which can be used on glass -- like many other laser mice -- for all you folks who enjoy a transparent workspace. Oh, and in case you thought you'd simply lick the mouse every so often to stave off corporal infection, IOGEAR's disclaimer says otherwise: "Do not ingest the surface material of the device under any circumstances." No matter why that sounds familiar, we think we're capable of following at least that manufacturer instruction.[Via The Raw Feed]
Meet the DN-UM3K, the mic'ed up mouse with a USB hub tail
There's nothing that gets our heart pounding like a good input device, and even though the new DN-UM2B and DN-UM3K aren't exactly going to give the Logitech VX/MX Revolutions a run for their money anytime soon, we're still having palpitations. The DN-UM2B comes in a bright pastel blue, includes a retractable cord, and sports a dual port USB hub at the tail end; its companion, the DN-UM3K (pictured above) comes in a more subdued black, packed with all the same features, plus an integrated microphone that plugs into your PC's audio in port. The pair of mice sell for ¥1,000 ($8.50) and ¥1,300 ($11), respectively -- but now that we think about it, we'd probably rather spend our Hamilton on one of these DVD players, or better yet, a decent lunch.[Via TechJapan]
Microsoft Hardware rains down fiery peripheral death
As if to prove a point to their comrades in the Microsoft Windows division, Microsoft Hardware has just launched nine new peripherals to show 'em how its done. We won't trouble you with all nine products, but the four highlights of the launch are plenty to be getting on with. Pictured above is the new Wireless Entertainment Desktop 8000, which claims to be the first wireless rechargeable backlit keyboard, and who are we to argue? The 'board features ambient and proximity sensing, while keeping it slim at a mere 1-inch thick, and it should be available next February for $250. Next up is the do-it-all Wireless Presenter Mouse 8000, which stuffs in slide presenter, laser pointer, media remote and laser mouse functionality into its meaty girth. The Bluetooth mouse should be out mid-October for about $100. Microsoft also has the new Natural Wireless Laser Mouse 6000, with high-def laz0r tracking and intense ergonomics, and the new LifeCam NX-6000 webcam, which features 7.6 megapixel stills and 2.0 megapixel video in a minuscule package. The cam should be out in November for $100, while the Laser Mouse 6000 should follow in January for $80. Now, if only we had a shiny new OS to use these with. Keep reading for more pics.Read - Wireless Entertainment Desktop 8000Read - Wireless Presenter Mouse 8000Read - Natural Wireless Laser Mouse 6000Read - Microsoft LifeCam NX-6000
Soviet-era computer mice were plain, functional
You know, there was a time when the Soviet Union produced some of the greatest technology on Earth. Only problem was that was around 1957 -- and the USSR took another 30+ years to die a slow, painful death. Sometime during the Gorbachev era, scientists discovered "personal computers," and thus began a long tradition of making high-quality computer mice. In fact, the Russians were so good at making mice that they decided to write the word "mouse" on them in Cyrillic and include a little picture so that people wouldn't forget what it was. Perhaps there's a market for this type of antique obsolete computer hardware? Or maybe Logitech's next mouse will be inspired by this classic showing of Russian functionality -- surely that would be better than its sleek designs of today.[Via digg]
Logitech MX Revolution mouse dissected
It's a little painful and hideous to watch, but some of us are still a little curious as to just how Logitech managed to fit those dozens of moving parts (and a few motors) in their new Revolution mice to give that wheel its free-spinning abilities. We're not firm believers in animal testing 'round these parts, but this mouse was just begging to be opened up for the betterment of human knowledge.
Fluffy Soap mouse works without a desk
Can you imagine controlling your computer with a peripheral that resembles a fluffy bar of soap? Well hear us out, because the Soap pointing device from Microsoft Research offers to combine the accuracy of a traditional optical mouse with the freedom of a wireless, even desk-free peripheral. The device, which consists of a soft, fluffy hull coating a wireless optical mouse core, reads the fabric's movement when the user applies outside pressure, and reports it as a position (think: rolling a bar of soap around in your hand). Through a demonstration in combination with a mobile keyboard in Unreal Tournament (albeit with dumb bots), the creators have shown that Soap offers a degree of accuracy that comes close to a table-bound mouse; when the user squeezes, the Soap can even outclass desktop mouse performance in large wall display setups. If users can cope with the idea of blasting away fiends in UT with a ball of fluff and Soap gets a commercial release, if nothing else you can be sure that an entire cottage industry will spring up around supplying fake eyes and tails to turn the Soap into a line-up of cute, pointable rodentia.[Via hackaday]
Hands on with the Logitech VX and MX Revolution
We told you we got a little face time with these bad boys; without having spent a terribly long time using the VX and MX Revolution, we can definitely tell you that the tactile feedback and movement of the wheel is really unlike anything you've ever experienced before on a consumer mouse. Unfortunately, knowing those lame mouse kiosks retailers have set up in their stores, you probably won't be able to really feel the difference in the wheels when you switch apps and the mouse mechanics activate (for example, Excel scrolls freely, Word ratchet scrolls). It still might take a little getting used to having that second wheel on your thumb, but at least they refrained from button overload, and the ergonomics were top notch, even if that app-switcher behind the primary wheel was a real pain to get to. Click on for some more shots of the VX and MX Revolution!
Logitech's VX and MX Revolution mice
Logitech went back to the drawing board on the MX Revolution and VX Revolution mice, and here's what they came up with: the MicroGear Precision Scroll Wheel, which enables force feedback application support. Basically the heavy-feeling alloy wheels (of which there are two on the MX, and one on the VX) can spin freely and smoothly for up to seven seconds with a flick of your finger, or lock into the regular ratcheted scrolling motion like most of us are used to, depending on usage (the VX requires a flipped switch to toggle between the modes), the application, and your system's settings. It's kinda one of those things you have to try for yourself to really appreciate (we got to play with one a few weeks back), but if you're already sold and don't have any problems with your mice once again having dozens of moving parts, the Revolution series will set you back $99 or $79, respectively.
Microsoft keeps those gaming peripherals a comin'
Along with that new Razer-powered Habu mouse, Microsoft is busting out two more gaming devices with the realization that sometimes noobs need to get their game on too. The first one is and oldie but a goodie: they're relaunching the well-loved IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0, first launched in 2002. "People were literally carrying around their IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0s in protective glass cases," says Microsoft's Bill Jukes. The mouse includes 9,000 frames-per-second tracking along with "Precision Booster" and "Gaming Toggle" buttons. Microsoft is also cutting the cord on their Xbox 360 controller for PCs, with a new wireless version that works with your compy or 360. The IntelliMouse should be out in October for $40, with the wireless 360 controller following in December for $60.
Leipzeig: Microsoft unveils wireless PC controller, 2 mice, and not much else
Microsoft's Leipzeig Gams Convention 2006 media briefing was underwhelming, but did provide details on a trio of PC peripherals, which could interest Windows gaming folk. The announcement included news of a wireless Xbox 360 controller configured for PC (December; $59.95), which features an integrated jack for PC headsets -- the controller will also be compatible with the Xbox 360 console. Microsoft also unveiled two new mice: a new version of the IntelliMouse, IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0 (October; $39.95), and the Razer Precision powered Habu (October; $69.95), featuring a 2,000 DPI laser engine.Microsoft also finalized Xbox Live Vision camera details, making official two separate bundles: 'Xbox Live Vision' (September 16; $39.99), which includes the camera, UNO & TotemBall, and a 1-month Xbox Live Gold Membership; and 'Xbox Live Video Chat Gold Kit' (September 16; $59.99), featuring everything in the $39.99 edition plus a 1-year Xbox Live Gold Membership, Robotron: 2084, and 200 Microsoft Points.
MondoMouse
MondoMouse says it 'gives your mouse super powers.' That's quite a claim, and while I'm not sure if my mouse is super powered with this app, it certainly is more powerful. MondoMouse allows you to resize and move windows that are currently in the background. It also displays a text tip describing what the window you are hovering over is (much like Expose).MondoMouse costs $14.95 and there is a 30 day demo.
MacMice busts out laser-powered Danger Mouse
If that Mighty Mouse of Apple's isn't fulfilling your need for classic cartoon references or laz0r-based accuracy, the new Danger Mouse from MacMice might do the trick -- plus it tosses in a nice, fresh pop cultural reference to boot. The Danger Mouse sticks close to Apple design cues, but splits its shell in the front to make concession to a traditional right click function. MacMice also tossed in a MicroScroll wheel to ape Apple's scroll ball (in 1 dimension at least), and a 1600 DPI laser sensor for tracking with the best of 'em. So yeah, MacMice isn't exactly breaking new ground here with their stylings, but with the homogeneous tastes of the general Mac populace, would that make them Crazy?[Via The Gadget Weblog]
Nokia handset doubles as a Bluetooth mouse
Even casual readers of this publication know that we're always seeking out ways to add more functionality to our existing gadgets, so when we heard about an innovative modder who was able to turn his Nokia cellphone into a fully-functioning Bluetooth mouse, well, we knew that we were approaching convergence heaven. Inspired by Jani 'Japala' Pönkkö's LogiNoki hack (in which Jani embedded a Nokia LCD into a Logitech G3 mouse), "Pyrofer" decided to forgo the hardware modifications and instead write a Java code and corresponding Windows driver that would allow him to use his 6230i as an impromptu optical input device for when laptop trackpads and control nubbins just don't cut it. Since it's still in development, Pyrofer has yet to release his code to the public, and the Nokiamouse does indeed have some serious drawbacks; most notably, he has to hold the handset a fraction of a millimeter above the mousing surface -- which must contain distinct patterns, so no direct desktop operation -- in order for the camera's CCD to pick up enough usable light. Still, once he develops a proper Bluetooth HID for the phone to work on any BT-enabled notebook (there's also talk of a GPRS connection) -- as well as an interface for mirroring the PC's screen on the Nokia's display -- this sounds like it'll be one sweet project that could see some serious widespread adoption.[Thanks, Mike]
Logitech's EasyCall Desktop -- the MS Office of VoIP peripherals
Today Logitech got a clue: why sell one device to the burgeoning Internet calling community when you can sell an entire suite of peripherals. Introducing the EasyCall Desktop which Logitech claims is the world's first mouse, keyboard, headset and speakerphone combo. In essence, EasyCall Desktop does for desktop clutter what Adobe, Microsoft, and Apple did for software -- take a bunch of disparate tools, give 'em the same look and feel and enhance each for relatively seamless interaction across the suite. In addition to a cordless keyboard and laser mouse (which, while not stated, will likely both feature Bluetooth 2.0 with EDR like other Logitech Desktops) the package includes a tethered stereo headset which can be attached to the full-duplex speakerphone. The speakerphone, apparently also wired, acts as the Internet calling control center and features Logitech's RightSound echo cancelation technology to get the most from VoIP apps like Yahoo Messenger with Voice, AOL's AIM, and of course Skype. What's odd is that a Skype specific keyboard will also be launched as part of the Desktop but only in Europe -- go figure. Expect the kit to ship in the US and Europe by mid-September with an expected retail price pegged at $130/€130.[Via CrowdedBrain]
Review: Apple's wireless Mighty Mouse
Apple finally snipped the Mighty Mouse's tail this week, introducing a battery powered version boasting bluetooth and a more accurate laser tracking system. I, like countless others, have been itching for a bluetooth Mighty Mousy since the day they announced the original version, so in the name of a TUAW review (ok, fine: and my gadget habit), I ran out and picked one up to see just how well this tailless version of Apple's one two-button mouse performs.First up, a bit of a disclaimer and a list of the equipment I'm used to working with: my personal favorite mouse of all time is the *gasp* Microsoft Intellimouse Explorer (version 3.0A is the latest I own, if you're interested). I also own the wired Mighty Mouse, and it's the only other Apple mouse I've used since the only Macs I've ever owned are portables. In terms of bluetooth mice however, I've used quite a few, including those from Microsoft, Apple, Logitech and even Radtech. I typically pack the wired (now wireless) Mighty Mouse for travel as it's nice and compact for on-the-go work, but I still prefer the Intellimouse, especially for any serious Photoshopping and Unreal fragging. With that out of the way, let's get to the meat: the wireless Mighty Mouse. After playing with it for a couple days now, I can summarize my review if you're only here for the cliff notes: it's nice - for a bluetooth mouse. As I've mentioned, I've used quite a few bluetooth mice and, while this one is definitely more accurate, it isn't anything Earth-shattering. In my experience, all bluetooth mice suffer from reduced accuracy as (what I assume is) a result of bluetooth itself being not quite as reliable as USB for driving a mouse. Little things like clicking a tab's close button, or clicking the right icon in the dock can sometimes be a jittery process. The mouse can also occasionally be just the slightest bit sluggish, but again in my experience with bluetooth mice, that is to be expected.But don't think this new mouse isn't as mighty as Apple claims. Fortunately, as the product site brags, desktop surfaces don't seem to affect this new laser tracking system, so the mouse in general is a bit more accurate on all kinds of table tops, including those at Starbucks and my desk at home. If you're looking for a direct comparison, this might help: Even with the general bluetooth mouse gripes I mentioned earlier, this mouse definitely feels more accurate and responsive than Apple's previous bluetooth mice, and any other bluetooth mouse I've used. However, if you're hoping that the wireless Mighty Mouse is the missing link between USB mouse accuracy and bluetooth portability, I hate to say: you'll have to continue on your quest.For those looking for a good compromise between these two seemingly incompatible worlds though, this is definitely the most accurate bluetooth mouse I've used to date. The other bonuses also help sweeten the admittedly steep $70 price tag, such as that killer 360-degree scroll button, one-battery functionality, and Apple even includes a pair of those new Energizer Lithium batteries - not the cheap generic ones; "spared no expense", as they say. All things considered, the wireless Mighty Mouse is a strong offering for those jonsing for a two-button bluetooth Apple mouse.
LogiNoki: the LCD mouse mod
In much the same way that moving to a dual-monitor setup only makes you want to add a third and maybe even a fourth display, mod king Jani 'Japala' Pönkkö decided that if his Logitech G15 gaming keyboard sported an LCD screen, why, his mouse needed one too. Far from practical (after all, your hand is covering the tiny display whenever you're using the mouse), this is one of those projects you undertake purely for the love of the game -- and maybe to impress your handful of friends who actually think pimped-out computer peripherals are the epitome of cool. The build itself doesn't sound as difficult as some of the other mods we've featured here: Pönkkö simply hooked up a salvaged Nokia 6610 LCD to a standard controller, attached the wiring and and a parallel port connector to his Logitech G5's existing USB cable, and stuffed the components right inside the modified mouse. Obviously the screen is too small to to fit web pages or even an IM window, and it's too slow to properly display video, but you could still employ it for photo slideshows or visual alerts of some kind. Before you blow this concept off completely, keep in mind that a certain software giant is also trying to cram auxiliary displays into places they've never been; who knows, maybe Microsoft's got a commercial version of this mouse waiting in the wings.[Via Hack-A-Day]
