Microsoft looks to blue lasers to improve computer mice

Microsoft is debuting new mouse technology called BlueTrack which it says offers better tracking on virtually any surface, it says -- even carpet.

The blue beam produced by the new laser in Microsoft's Explorer Mouse series is about four times as large as the beam used in current laser mice, according to a Microsoft statement yesterday. This, coupled with better tracking technology, can make its new model usable even on surfaces such as carpet, it said.

While the Explorer and Explorer Mini still cannot be used on refractive surfaces such as glass or mirrors, their BlueTrack technology could prove to be an improvement over red laser-based mice.

Microsoft's Explorer Mouse will be full-size, retailing for $99.95. It features 2.4 GHz wireless technology and a chrome trim with blue lighting around the bottom rim. The Explorer Mini Mouse, retailing for $79.95, will be a smaller version of the full-size device.

Initially, BlueTrack will be available through both Best Buy and Microsoft's online Web site.

Microsoft was the first to debut the optical mouse back in 1999, which ended up shaking up the industry and a move away from the old "ball" mice. Then three years ago it switched to laser technology, which offered the ability for use on a greater range of surfaces.

However, laser mice also have their downsides too. There are difficulties in use on common household surfaces, including granite and marble. Additional, dust and dirt buildup can also affect tracking performance -- difficulties which BlueTrack seeks to overcome.