Mouse Alternative Promises a More Comfortable Click

Contour Design launches RollerMouse Re:d, an ergonomic input device that's gentle on the joints and precise enough for CAD use.

What's black and white and "Re:d" all over? It's the latest version of the RollerMouse from Contour Design, a developer of ergonomic computer input devices. Optimized for CAD use, the new RollerMouse Re:d delivers precise cursor control that increases user productivity while decreasing stress on the neck, shoulders, elbows, and wrists, the company reports.  


Contour Design's new RollerMouse Re:d incorporates tracking technology and dual laser sensors that allow for very precise cursor control without the joint strain associated with traditional mouse use.


RollerMouse Re:d is the latest in a line of products designed to eliminate the reaching and gripping common to traditional mouse use, which can lead to repetitive-stress injuries. It sports a new housing of seamless aluminum that provides durability as well as a sleek appearance. Its roller bar is textured and thicker than previous designs, offers a low-friction glide, and incorporates new 7SENSES tracking technology for cursor precision and control that surpasses that of all competing products, according to the company.

"With the new tracking technology, Contour Design has redefined precision, so it's not really relevant to discuss DPI anymore," says CEO Steven Wang. "Dual laser sensors track the motion inside the roller bar and give you the most accurate pointing device you can get." Located inside the bar, the sensors are protected from dust and dirt. 7SENSES constantly adjusts speed and acceleration to ensure the rollerbar is as central as possible, while intuitively adapting to the user's pace to decrease micromovements and increase efficiency.

It's that improved precision that makes Re:d the first RollerMouse suited to CAD work, and the larger surface gives users more control when pointing, rolling, or clicking. Re:d also offers new features that minimize the transition time from standard mousing to "RollerMousing," the company states. Users also can adjust click force and click volume to suit their preferences.

Wang explained two more features that make the RollerMouse Re:d beneficial for CAD users: "When the rollerbar reaches the end of travel, the cursor goes into autodrive and keeps traveling toward the end of the screen. This is a helpful feature on large and multiple screens, because there is no need to lift and pan the mouse to move across the screens. The adjustable cursor speed button makes it easy to slow the cursor when even more precision is needed."


RollerMouse Re:d combines precise cursor control, right and left click, scrolling, and copy/paste functionality in a stationary, ergonomic unit.


RollerMouse Re:d is positioned at the foot of the keyboard as opposed to beside it, further reducing the hand and arm movement that is common with traditional mouse use. Users control the roller bar with their fingertips; the base provides ergonomic wrist support. RollerMouse Re:d exchanges the traditional click sound of a mechanical mouse with a virtual, digital click, providing the same feel and sound of standard clicking without the mechanical click percussion. RollerMouse Re:d is compatible with Microsoft Windows 7/8/Vista/XP/ME/98, Apple OSX, and Apple Mac OS 8.1 or newer.

RollerMouse Re:d won the 2012 Attendees' Choice Award at the National Ergonomics Conference and Exposition in Las Vegas in December. It was selected as the best new product that increases productivity and profitability while improving workplace health and safety.

RollerMouse Re:d is available from the Contour Design web site for $265; it is covered by a two-year warranty, and a 30-day trial is available.

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