Upgrade 3: Installing a Wireless Mouse or Keyboard

Upgrade #3: Installing a Wireless Mouse or Keyboard

There's another connection option when it comes to both mice and keyboards going wireless. Wireless mice and keyboards are nice in that they let you roll away from your desk and do your computing (and Web surfing) from your easy chair.

caution

If you try to install a non-USB keyboard without first powering off your PC, you'll find that the keyboard port quits working altogether. You have to reboot your system to recognize any new keyboard you connect.

Although some older wireless devices used the somewhat-limited infrared (IR) technology, most wireless mice and keyboards today work via radio frequency (RF) transmission. Some more expensive models use Bluetooth technology, which is a bit more reliable and secure than general RF; if you can find an affordable Bluetooth model, it's not a bad way to go.

Installing a wireless mouse or keyboard is pretty much like installing a wired one, except that you're connecting the wireless receiver not the mouse or keyboard itself to the PS/2 or USB port on your system unit. Remember to insert fresh batteries into both the wireless receiver and the mouse or keyboard, then power down your PC, make the new connection, and reboot. Install the necessary software and you're ready to roll without wires!