The transmitter is located inside the mouse, and sends a simple radio signal that is based upon the movements or clicking of the mouse.
The receiver, which is typically connected or built-in to your computer, accepts that electromagnetic signal and passes it onto the software within the computer. The software driver then passes that information onto the operating system, and the mouse moves or clicks accordingly.
Computer mice aren't the only electronic devices that use radio frequencies to communicate. Cellular phones, garage door openers, computer wireless networks, and even cordless phones are examples of other devices. Frequencies for these electronics run from 900 Mhz to 5.8 Ghz. Occasionally this can present a problem, as multiple types of devices can be running on the same frequency and cause conflicts.
Think of radio control cars. Often manufacturers of radio control cars built different models that run on the same frequency. If you attempt to use those two cars in the same area, one or even both, may not even move. One remote may control the wrong car. There are lots of different possibilities.
Benefits of Wireless Mice
Unlike infrared technology, which is commonly used in television and other short-range remotes, wireless mice do not need a direct line of sight to the receiver. The mouse merely needs to be in the general area to accurately communicate. Due to the technology, wireless mice can easily transmit data through other devices or even a monitor.
Of course, the biggest benefit of wireless mice is because they are wireless. No need to pickup your mouse because you've run out of cord. With the laser and optical technology used in many mice today, a wireless mouse can run on virtually any surface, and provide extreme accuracy-all without a cord!
Other benefits are that RF components are inexpensive, light weight, and require low power.
Downsides of Wireless Mice
Unfortunately, wireless mice do have some downsides. They run on batteries, and, as we all know, batteries can run out of steam. This can happen during time-sensitive moments and cause serious downtime until new batteries are located.
Occasionally, transmitters and receivers do have trouble transmitting locally. Many times placing them behind a monitor or below a desk can cause the mouse to work under certain conditions. Oddly enough, moving the receiver closer seems to always correct the problem.
In the development of several mouse pads, the product development team at HandStands has faced this. With some prototypes, certain mice refused to work correctly, yet after moving the receiver they worked perfectly fine. Even wired versions of the same mice worked correctly, so sometimes the benefits of radio frequency technology may encounter certain environmental problems which cause them to not function as they should.
