"Mouse balls are now available as FRU (Field Replacement Unit). Therefore, if a mouse fails to operate or should it perform erratically, it may need a ball replacement. Because of the delicate nature of this procedure, properly trained personnel should only attempt replacement of mouse balls.

Before proceeding, determine the type of mouse balls by examining the underside of the mouse. Domestic balls will be larger and harder than foreign balls. Ball removal procedures differ depending upon the manufacturer of the mouse. Foreign balls can be replaced using the pop-off method. Domestic balls are replaced by using the twist-off method.

Mouse balls are not usually static sensitive. However, excessive handling can result in sudden discharge.

Upon completion of ball replacement, the mouse may be used immediately. It is recommended that each replacer have a pair of spare balls for maintaining optimum customer satisfaction. Any customer missing his balls should suspect local personnel of removing these necessary items."

Seriously, you can open the bottom of the mouse and look for lint, fuzz, hair, glop... cleaning the ball is one thing, but the rollers are where the "stuff" collects and makes them erratic.

Get a good optical mouse and you'll be done fooling with these problems. Still use a pad, because of the feel, but no more rolling balls to cause problems.

If your computer still has a plug for a PS2 mouse, I'd stay with it. USB mice are nice, but I'm not impressed by using one port, all the time, just for a mouse. USB mice have been know to jump and act strange, even when they are optical.

Disadvante: Many new laptops are now elimiating PS2 plugs for external devices like keyboards and mice.

I have a USB wireless mouse at home. It's optical, it's dandy, it works.

The battery goes dead at 3 am, while I'm editing, and I have to steal one out of the TV remote. Otherwise, wireless is another good option and you can move it to your next computer.