Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this How Stuff Works article:

Brain, Marshall, and Carmen Carmack. "How Computer Mice Work." 24 April 2000. HowStuffWorks.com. <http://computer.howstuffworks.com/mouse.htm> 04 July 2008.

Inside this Article

Introduction to How Computer Mice Work
Evolution
Inside a Mouse

Data Interface
Optical Mice
Accuracy
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Data Interface

Most mice on the market today use a USB connector to attach to your computer. USB is a standard way to connect all kinds of peripherals to your computer, including printers, digital cameras, keyboards and mice. See How USB Ports Work for more information about this technology.

Some older mice, many of which are still in use today, have a PS/2 type connector, as shown here:

A typical PS/2 connector.

Instead of a PS/2 connector, a few other older mice use a serial type of connector to attach to a computer. See How Serial Ports Work for more information.