Originally posted by PJ G4:
What are your thoughts about the mice listed. I have a G4 computer and am planning on buying an iBook SE. I am leaning toward the Graphire as I plan to use the iBook for entering patient data and drawings. Can the Graphire be connected to the USB port of the iBook. Thanks
Yes,
I have an older Mac; can't tell about iBook USB but don't see any reason not to. There could be more battery drain but presumably you won't be travelling far with it. You'll probably need a hub to combine USB devices.
I've used most of the mices (the plural form of many mouse brands and individual products) and none is much better than the Graphire. There have been some quirks with the software (sometimes the computer forgets it's there, etc.) but I like it and the software will improve. When you add the pen into the equation it becomes a real bargain!
Right clicking is very helpful (sorry Apple) and the wheel is often useful for long documents (I suspect it is responsible for some crashes however). The wheel doubles as a button which I use to double click with. It all becomes intuitive in an hour or so of surfing and working with documents.
I use the pen infrequently and so far I have found it somewhat awkward. Unlike the mouse, the pen is positioned on the pad exactly where the cursor is on the screen. Others tell me it is wonderful.
I find I have to clean the mouse & pad almost daily to keep them sliding smoothly. A wipe with alcohol soaked tissue removes the grease & dust. I'm sure that other mice use the same teflon type pads & require the same treatment for effortless mousing. The pen shouldn't drag but the tip should be kept clean too (wipe with finger) to prevent scratches.
The Graphire pad can be placed atop the piles on my desk and always provides a smooth mousing surface unlike floppy mouse pads. I would like a larger graphic tablet. The success of this model might prompt someone to market one at a reasonable price.
Hope this helps.
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