Ad: Manage updates with the Download App

mouse

Microsoft expands its hardware line

Microsoft is introducing a new technology to help keep laptops cooler. Unfortunately, it's not software.

The company on Tuesday introduced its first Notebook Cooling Base, an inch-thick stand with built-in fan. Available in white and black, the laptop-chiller is powered over a USB connection.

The product will sell for $30 when it hits the market in July and represents a new direction for Microsoft's hardware unit, which is best known for its mice and keyboards.

At one point, the company sold wireless networking gear, though it got out of that business in 2004.

Microsoft on Tuesday also announced … Read more

Five bargains less than $10

Got a sawbuck to spare? For no more than 10 smackers, you can walk away with any of these five goodies. The only challenge is deciding which one to get.

Amazon MP3 has U2's just-released new album, "No Line on the Horizon," for $3.99. iTunes price: $9.99. (If you've never checked out Amazon's MP3 store, you owe it to yourself.) Buy.com has a Targus Stow-N-Go Wireless Optical Mouse for $9.99 shipped. Perfect for notebooks, the mouse features a USB receiver that tucks away underneath when not in use. iTunes has the … Read more

First Look video: Air Mouse for iPhone 1.5

Infinitely cooler and more practical than the still-respected iTunes Remote is Air Mouse for iPhone 1.5 ($6). Why? You can play music and videos from any media player, for starters, not just from Apple's pet player.

In fact, Air Mouse gives you the reins to the keyboard and mouse, with new screens in this version that are tailored to commanding the Web browser, media players, and function keys. Then there are the two methods for wielding your iPhone's remote mouse, and new support for landscape mode.

In a word, it's awesome, and it works (with the … Read more

This Netbook has an onboard DVD burner

Japanese PC firm Mouse Computer will be releasing at the end of January what is believed to be one of the first Netbooks with a built-in optical drive. The LB-F1500W will come with the standard Netbook specifications, including a 1.6GHz Atom processor, 160GB hard disk, 1GB RAM, 10.2-inch (1,024x600) display, and Windows XP Home Edition.

We are not sure if onboard optical drives will be the way to go for Netbooks. While a DVD drive is a nice-to-have feature on a Netbook, especially for those planning to use it as a primary computer or entertainment device, it … Read more

iPhone's Air Mouse 1.5: A universal PC, Mac remote

Forget the iTunes Remote. The newly released Air Mouse 1.5 ($5.99) makes a mean universal remote out of the iPhone and iPod Touch. With it, you'll be able to control almost any program on your Mac or Windows computer.

I was always a big fan of this app, which works with the help of a Windows and Mac servers to establish a local network between the computer and the iPhone. It then gives you two modes for controlling the keyboard and mouse: a touch pad, and a slightly less effective (read: higher learning curve) and more traditional air mouse that you activate by pressing a button and arcing your arm. Version 1.5 completely blows away every competitor we've seen by adding an incredible array of new features without bumping up the price.… Read more

Waterproof mouse soaks up serious sweat

I just can't get behind the concept of waterproof gadgets. An iPod Shuffle that you can submerge is kinda cool, but you still need waterproof headphones. Maybe you can use it in the shower with these speakers. But do you really need a waterproof mouse?

Your wallet says no, but USB Geek says yes. This five-button USB optical mouse is made with sealed silicone, making it completely waterproof. Despite how uncomfortable you feel about mixing water and lasers, USB Geek claims the optical sensor maintains precision on any surface. So in case you misplace your waterproof mouse pad, feel free to use that sea turtle's shell next time you're scuba diving and simply must check out what's new on CNET.

The mouse will also come in handy if you suffer from hyperhidrosis, no sweat. More pics after the jump.… Read more

Let the top down on Jasco's Convertible Mouse

Laptop mice are supposed to be smaller than average ones to save space in your bag, but do they have to be so small that only Stuart Little can use one? I'd rather sacrifice a little extra room in my bag for a comfortable mouse, but Jasco offers a peaceful compromise.

The Jasco Convertible Mouse looks similar to other laptop mice; it has a retractable USB cord, contoured buttons, and a small scroll dial, but the real difference is in the top slider that extends out the back to provide extra space for your hand. I tested both sizes … Read more