EverGlide Launches Gaming Mat - Optica

[Mr.Tweak]

Gaming Mat - Optica:

Features: Specifically designed for corded and cordless optically enhanced mice
Launch Date: 8/15/02
URL: www.everglide.com
Specks:
Custom Image: 4 Color Custom Art Available - See attached JPG
Trim Size: 8 x 10 1/2 x 1/16
.012" Mil Velvet, Scratch-Resistant Textured Vinyl
1/32" Rubber Mat
SRP: $9.95

The Back Story
Optical mice see everything in the red spectrum no matter what color is really there because it uses a red LED to light the surface on which it rests.

Cordless optical mice have a power saving feature that shines less light on highly reflective surfaces and more light on less reflective surfaces.

The Surface Contrast and/or Image Pattern:
The mouse optical eye must detect a difference in the surface as the mouse moves over it. If the surface and/or image is too regular the eye can't distinguish the differences in the surface as it moves and therefore cannot track.

Example - plain paper has enough surface randomness for the optical mouse to track. Paper has a very fine very random texture.

Therefore:
If you use a high percentage of very light colors and just enough black (contrast medium) so that the optical eye can track movement you will achieve the goals of conserving power and attaining good tracking.

[Wiggo]

Gee I havn't used a mouse pad in 18 months now. :D

[jago6498]

Me either, not since i got my IntelliPoint Explorer 1.0. but i am using a sweet "Discover AMD" mousepad that sticks to the desk. pretty nifty idea.:D

[Mr.Tweak]

The table does the trick for me as well but I'm very keen to see how this product goes!

[SegiY]

If laser mice work off the red spectrum (hence the red LED), What happens if you do the blue LED mod?