Computer Care - IV

Mouse

Optical

Most PC mice in use today have optical sensors and require very little or no maintenance. No form of user dismantling is possible or required.

The optical sensor typically only needs an occasional wipe with a dry lint free cloth or a dry cotton bud if the sensor is recessed in the body of the mouse.

If a gentle dry wipe does not sufficiently clean the sensor, refer to the manufacturers instructions as different sensor types can be intolerant of more forceful cleaning methods.

Keep the sliding pads on the bottom of the mouse clean to ensure a smooth flowing movement. Always use the mouse on a clean surface as dust and other debris can disrupt its smooth operation.

Rubber Ball

The older rolling rubber ball mice, although gradually disappearing from use, still have a reasonable presence in the world of PCs.

These mice should always be used on a clean mouse pad. However, even if you do keep your mouse pad clean the ball and rollers inside the mouse will still require regular cleaning to maintain a smooth operation.

1. Ideally, turn off the PC before attempting to clean the mouse. If you don’t, as you are handling the mouse during the cleaning process, the cursor will be racing around the screen while the buttons are pressed making numerous changes to whatever is displayed leaving you wondering what happened when you weren’t looking.
2. It can also be easier to clean the mouse if you also unplug it before starting.
3. Turn the bottom of the mouse face up and gently press the locking ring around the ball and turn it in the direction of the arrows to remove the ring.
4. Remove the ball and wipe it with a damp lint free cloth. If the ball has debris clinging to it, also use a small amount of diluted liquid cleaner on the cloth.
5. Inside the mouse case there are a pair of rollers that will have debris wrapped around and clinging to the rollers. You will normally need to lightly scrap the rollers with a small light instrument so as not to damage the rollers or bend the supporting pins. If you are sufficiently careful, you can use a fingernail to scrap the rollers.
6. When the rollers are free of debris, wipe them with a cotton bud dampened with a mild cleaning fluid to clean them.
7. Ensure the rollers and ball are dry before reassembling the mouse.
8. Reconnect the mouse and start the PC to check for correct operation.