Microsoft Introduces Mouse and Wireless Controller for Gamers

Microsoft has unveiled several new products to enhance its gaming line, including the Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0, Xbox 360 Wireless Controller for Windows and Habu mouse in alliance with Razer USA Ltd.

According to the company, these new products address specific gamer demands.

Microsoft’s IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0, built on the original IntelliMouse Explorer design, delivers precision and control for gameplay on the PC. Its ergonomic design and wide footprint provide comfort and stability, plus tracking accuracy delivers superior reliability and performance.

“We are reintroducing IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0 in response to the demand from PC gamers worldwide,” said Bill Jukes, product marketing manager for Microsoft Hardware US. “People were literally carrying around their IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0s in protective glass cases, and rightly so — there isn’t a mouse on the market that can beat this design for comfortable play and precision for low-sensitivity first-person shooter games.”

Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0 offers 9,000 frames per second reading, offers "Precision Booster" to enable gamers to switch between default and precision mode for enhanced control and brings a "Gaming Toggle" feature that lets gamers switch between favourite weapons or program frequently used action sequences with the touch of a button.

The new Xbox 360 controller is a wireless version of the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows, and delivers a consistent next-generation gaming experience across the PC and Xbox 360. Designed by the Xbox 360 gaming team, the controller features 2.4 GHz wireless technology with up to a 30-foot range, adjustable vibration feedback for longer battery life, precise thumb sticks, two pressure-point triggers, eight-way direction pad for enhanced PC gaming and integrated headset jack for PC headsets.

The new Xbox 360 Wireless Controller for Windows works with Windows XP-based PCs and the Xbox 360.

Also announced by Microsoft is its new alliance with Razer, resulting in a co-developed gaming mouse, Habu (pictured). The new gaming mouse brings together cutting-edge innovation and comfort from Microsoft Hardware and best-in-class gaming accessory technology from Razer.

Powered by Razer Precision, the Habu’s data path was opened from eight to 16 bits and features an advanced 2,000 DPI laser sensor; the result is an ideal gaming mouse with virtually no skipping or pixel jumping or negative acceleration.

Additional features include:

Interchangeable Side Button Panels provide gamers with two options for different hand sizes or preferences.

2,000 DPI Laser Engine, Powered by Razer Precision, delivers super-fast response time.

On-the-fly DPI lets players adjust DPI for controlled sensitivity.

Always-On Mode Pioneered by Razer gives gamers virtually no latency.

High-speed motion detection lets gamers get their speed on with movement of up to 45 inches per second and 20G acceleration.

Seven programmable buttons with Hyperesponse allow gamers to program their button functions; Razer’s Hyperesponse technology reduces latency.

On-board profile memory enables gamers to store up to five game control profiles on the mouse.

Ultra-slick Teflon feet let gamers enjoy smooth and quiet gliding.

Ergonomic design features GlowPipe side rails and large, rubber-coated buttons.

Thin, flexible wire provides gamers with the speed of a wired mouse with the feel of a wireless device.

These products will be widely available between October and November 2006 (in the USA) and November and December 2006 (in New Zealand).