Iogear Phaser Hand-Held RF Wireless Mouse with Laser Pointer GME322R

Rating:
Summary: It works, but design is poor
Review: I use this for PowerPoint presentations. It does work, but it's no better and in some ways not as good as the wireless optical mouse I was using before. With it, too, I could scroll through slides without placing the device on a surface.

The poor design is with the battery, in two respects. One, the infrared light often goes on while the device is stored, so if you aren't careful, the battery will get used up very fast. Second and worse, you need a small screwdriver to open the battery case. So even if you are as obsessive as I was and have extra batteries on hand for a presentation, you won't be able to use this device unless you also remember to carry a small screwdriver. Every other battery-operated device I have opens without a screwdriver, but this one--designed precisely to be used on the road--requires a screwdriver!

If you want to use this with PowerPoint to scroll backward, it's not as easy as it was with my scroll mouse. But it will work if you set up PowerPoint so that the right click of the mouse goes back instead of showing a menu. I can't seem to find what menu item in PowerPoint I used to do this, but it's there somewhere.

In sum, if you don't already have a wireless device for presentations or if you need longer distance than you get with a wireless optical mouse, you might consider this. If they fix the battery problem it would be fine.

Rating:
Summary: Cool looking device but needs tender loving care.
Review: This product works well the first and only time I used it, however I do have 3 problems with it.
First, the laser pointer button is placed on top of the unit which when packed away in your computer bag, it will be depressed and it will drain your battery.
Second, the battery compartment needs a screw driver to open.
Third and most important, the first time I used it in a large public presentation in Dallas, I left the receiver in the auditorium and could not find it later. When I contacted the manufacturer to buy a replacement receiver, I was told I could not do that. I have to buy a complete unit again. Other companies allow you to buy replacement parts.
Now, I am shopping for a better device.