The sensual mouse. Product/Link: Logitech® MX™500 Optical Mouse Synopsis: An evolution in mice. Requirements: Win9x/NT/2000/Me/XP, USB or PS/2 port, CD-ROM drive; MacOS 8.6+, USB port, CD-ROM drive. Price: USD49.95. Rating: Tad's favorite. So far. Comment: contrary to George's proclamation that Tad has as many mice as Amelda has shoes, he currently possesses a paltry seven. It all started with a single-button Apple, progressed to a Mac mouse, then a number of brand X models, a wireless unit, two optical critters, now a third. Unlike Microsoft's IntelliMouse® Optical, the Logitech lacks a taillight. But it is dramatically smoother to move and has a 800-dpi sensor for more accurate graphics work. The maker claims, "Ground-breaking new engine captures more data every second, measuring even the smallest movement." Your hand slips easily around the contoured shape, though after years of handwashing by MS some button locations take getting used to. There are eight all together, three of them unique to the MX 500. A small button just forward of the wheel scrolls pages upwards, while another button just rear of the wheel does the opposite. Perhaps helpful to those with carpal tunnel syndrome. Yet another button brings up a menu of the most frequently visited sites, files and programs. Not unlike your task bar, but with descriptions you can read. The remaining four are ones you're used to: right and left, plus page fore and back operated with your thumb. It comes with all the standard options, such as a cursor tail, variable speed and acceleration, customizable buttons, a variety of pointers. Conclusion: If you toy around with graphics on a regular basis, this mouse is the most accurate and comfortable we've yet found.