How to Clean a Computer Mouse

How to Clean a Computer Mouse

Author: Tauqeer Ul Hassan

A computer mouse is one of the devices of computer that is generally neglected by people. It is only noticed when it halts to function. A computer mouse full of goo and dirt will not operate well. The cursor on the screen will move in a funny manner and at other times you may have to force the mouse for moving the cursor. This will only dislodge the dirt and because the dirt is not removed completely, the problem with the mouse will continue. The mouse has to be cleaned properly and regularly for keeping it in working and good condition. There is no need to worry as this is not a difficult process but in fact an easy one and you only a dust cloth, rubbing alcohol, cotton swab and a pair of tweezers are needed.

The ball of the mouse has to be cleaned because a blocked mouse will limit its movement and the cursor will not be effectively used. The ball will have to be taken out for thoroughly cleaning it.

Process
- First, disconnect the mouse from the computer by pulling out its cable, the computer has to be switched off depending on the type of the mouse.
- Under the mouse, the ball is located which has to be twisted anti-clockwise. It will open and it can be cleaned effectively.
- Apply some alcohol on the cloth and rub the ball with it. The dirt and goo will come off. The cotton swab has to be used for removing the particles that may be stuck on the rings. Compressed air can also be used to get rid of the dirt stuck in places where the cloth cannot reach easily.
- Now, use the tweezers clean the dirt off the rings of the mouse.
- Any left out dirt can now be cleaned and the ball can now be placed back into its position.
- Finally, screw backs the closing and the mouse can now be reconnected back to the computer.

The mouse will now work effectively like a brand new one. If the mouse stops working again, then the cleaning process would have to be repeated to get it back in to working condition.

Cleaning an optical mouse
Cleaning an optical mouse is easier as compared to a ball mouse. The reason is that they don’t have ball part which can be disassembled. The dirt at the LED point only needs to be cleaned.

Process
- First, disconnect the mouse from the computer by simply unplugging it.
- Take a cotton swab, pour some alcohol on it and rub it on the pointer.
- When the cleaning is finished, use a piece of cloth to dry the mouse and then reconnect it back to the computer.

An optical mouse is something that must be acquired. Although it is a little bit more expensive than the typical ball mouse, it is a good asset is it is easier to maintain.

It takes only few minutes to clean a mouse and hence it should not be task that one can forget. Cleaning habits should be maintained frequently for ensuring that the mouse functions well and making it look that it has been well taken care of.

It should be made sure that the mouse is disconnected from the computer before cleaning. Some people might clean it while it is still connected to the computer. This must not be done because it is risky as a fluid is being used to clean the mouse. This can be harmful to the computer as it might catch up with the electrical circuit damaging it.

You might also want to learn how to choose a cleaning product and how to clean a computer mouse.

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1477086_10.html

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