Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer
 - reviewed by Andrew B
Review Date: 8th May 2002
Review Score: 9.5/10 
Distributor: Microsoft

The new Microsoft IntelliMouse explorer from Microsoft supports both PC & Mac compatibility that is guaranteed to be a hot seller.

Features of the Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer 

• Optical sensor scans desktop at 6,000 times per second
• Faster wheel scrolling
• Programmable internet navigation buttons
• Comfortable ergonomic design

My first impression of the IntelliMouse Explorer, which is always a good sign was that this mouse had it all. Not only did it have an excellent ergonomic feel but had precision accuracy. As with most Microsoft mice, they design them to truly fit right in the middle of your palm that allows for a comfortable feel. The mouse is also designed to be used by both right and left-handers. 

The accuracy and feel of the mouse via the mouse pointer was extremely smooth and accurate, thanks to the optical sensor. For the uninitiated, an optical sensor means that you no longer need a mouse wheel as the sensor does all the work. This means that the mouse will never get clogged up or dirty. Unlike some optical mice, this mouse works perfectly on just about any flat surface.

The wheel button is nice and smooth and can used for fast scrolling which is sometimes needed for browsing large documents. The mouse itself comes with an installation CD that installs the appropriate software for your computers operating system, including the software that lets program the internet navigation buttons. The installation size is minimal and ranges around 15 megabytes. The installation of the mouse is almost instantaneous, with Windows XP picking it up straight away. Don't worry if you don't have Windows XP because the installation CD supports Windows 95, 98, Windows Millennium, Windows NT and Windows 2000. The mouse itself supports the now standard USB format but also allows for PS/2 compatibility with the adapter.  Because USB is becoming a cross plat-formed standard, this mouse also works perfectly on Macintosh operating systems of OS 8.6 or higher. Software for the Macintosh is also included.

The mouse performed extremely well under basic operations under Windows XP, Microsoft Office and internet browsing via Internet Explorer. The mouse was also tested under Jedi Knight 2, a first person shooter for the PC which needs highly accurate aiming. All in all, the Microsoft IntelliMouse explorer is an excellent mouse that I would highly recommend. From gamers to business, leisure to work, this mouse is for everyone!

- Andrew B

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