Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
• Standard two-button mice (three, counting the wheel) suffice for most
purposes. However, five-button mice are ideally suited to some applica-
tions, such as games and web browsing. For example, the two extra but-
tons can be mapped to the Back and Forward browser buttons, eliminating
a great deal of extraneous mouse movement.
• Mice have cords ranging in length from less than 4 feet to about 9 feet. A
short mouse cord may be too short to reach the system, particularly if it is
on the floor. If you need a longer mouse cord, purchase a PS/2 keyboard or
USB extension cable, available in nearly any computer store.
• Consider buying a cordless mouse. The absence of a cord can make a sur-
prising difference.
Recommendedmousebrands
Logitech
(
http://www.logitech.com
) and
Microsoft
(
http://www.microsoft.com
)
both produce a wide range of excellent optical mice, in corded and cordless
models. One of them is almost certainly right for you. Even their basic models
are well built and reliable. The more expensive models have more features,
are more precise, and are probably more durable. We use both Logitech and
Microsoft mice on our personal systems.
Mouse Alternatives
Consider using a trackball or touch-
pad, particularly if you experience
hand pain when using a mouse.
Buying Components
We've bought a boatload of PC components over the last 25 years, for our-
selves and on behalf of employers and clients. In the following sections, we'll
tell you what we learned along the way.
BuyingGuidelines
Until the early 1990s, most computer products were bought in computer spe-
cialty stores. Retail sales still make up a significant chunk of computer product
sales—although the emphasis has shifted from computer specialty stores to
local “big-box” retailers like Best Buy, Fry's, Walmart, and Costco—but online
resellers now account for a large percentage of PC component sales.
Should you buy from a local brick-and-mortar retailer or an online reseller? We
do both, because each has advantages and disadvantages.
Local retailers offer the inestimable advantage of instant gratification. Unless
you're more patient than we are, when you want something, you want it Right
Now. Buying from a local retailer puts the product in your hands instantly, in-
stead of making you wait for FedEx to show up. You can also hold the product
in your hands, something that's not possible if you buy from an online reseller.
Additionally, local retailers have a big advantage if you need to return or ex-
change a product: if something doesn't work right, or if you simply change
your mind, you can just drive back to the store rather than dealing with the
hassles and cost of returning a product to an online reseller.
Online resellers have the advantage in breadth and depth of product selection.
If you want the less expensive OEM version of a product, for example, chances
are you won't find it at local retailers, most of which stock only retail-boxed
