Computer Mouse Pads
A guide for learning about how to find a great gaming mouse pad and other types of mouse pads
One of the most important pieces of equipment for any computer user is the computer mouse pad. Computer mouse pads help the mouse work more efficiently because they prevent friction and stop dust from entering the works of the mouse. In the days when most people used a trackball mouse, this was particularly relevant because dust could seriously snarl up the inner workings of the mouse. Today, when people use optical mice, computer mouse pads are still useful because they stop dirt and dust from messing up the optical signal on the bottom of the mouse.
Computer mouse pads were invented about a year after the first mouse was invented. This was in 1968, when Douglas Engelbart officially unveiled his great invention. Engelbart used a special controls console that included a keyboard and an inset area for supporting the mouse. A year later, Jack Kelley, the designer of the console, came up with the first computer mouse pad.
Apart from keeping the inner workings of a trackball mouse clean, the benefits of computer mouse pads are that they provide more friction, facilitating movement, and keeping the desk or table from getting scratched by the frequent use and movement of the mouse. This can be very helpful long-term by protecting the furniture coming in contact with your mouse.
Early computer mouse pads were made from vinyl board, but when rubberized silicon was added to the surface of the mouse ball, this changed and fabric became more effective. When the optical mouse came into being, transparent or reflective surfaces were found to interfere with the signal. For this reason, if you are working on a glass or very shiny tabletop, it is a good idea to use a mouse pad with a precision surface. Apart from if you use that type of surface, however, a computer mouse pad is no longer so essential if you are using an optical mouse.
Today, computer mouse pads are made from a variety of materials, including rubber, silicon, cork, leather, fabric, stone, and even stainless steel. Many people who use them are not aware of the number of these materials and are generally surprised to find this out.
In fact, the production of computer mouse pads has become quite an industry. You can buy them in all shapes and sizes – round, square, or ergonomic – and you can choose whether they are hard or soft. You can also design the pictures, colors, or slogans, making your computer mouse pad fit your character and personal tastes.
You can buy computer mouse pads in shocking pink if you want, or maybe you would like to surprise your loved one with a cute or enigmatic loving rhyme on it. If you are working all day, you may want to put a picture of your children on there so that you can glance at them occasionally while you are working. And if you want some peace and quiet, you can, of course, leave the mouse pad completely blank. The choice is yours, but your computer mouse pad can be just as individual as you are.