Do We Need Mousepads?

In 1969, Jack Kelley of Herman Miller designed the first mousepad. The purpose of the mousepad was to increase the friction of the mouse ball. Designed with a metallic, rubber-coated ball inside the mouse to track the computer’s cursor based on the turning on the mouse. The surface needed enough friction in order for the ball to turn. A mousepad gave that necessary friction.

Mousepads are used to keep the desk or table surface from being scratched and worn by continuous hand and mouse moving motion. It reduces the dust and debris from collecting under the mouse. Most important is that it allows the wrist to rest on the pad rather than a harder surface.

Today’s Modern optical and laser mice can work find with a blank piece of paper underneath. Though a padded mousepad offers comfort, speed and accuracy and takes away the wear and tear of the hardtop surface.

A mousepad aids in the comfort of the wrist and hand. Choosing the right mousepad is important if a person is prone to carpal tunnel. Mousepads with wrist rests give comfort to those who are online for long periods of time. There are special mousepads for serious gamers.

Do we need mousepads or are they for nostalgia sake? The answer to this all depends.

Stated on Zazzle website, ‘Zazzle custom mousepads are high quality, full of vibrant colors, and keep your mouse dust-free and sailing smooth. Decorate your desk at home or the office with photos of your special loved ones, a funky design, your logos, a favorite slogan, or a warning message to anyone who comes near your mouse, with 24 hour shipping on most orders.’

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