The Computing Infrastructure Support Department has tested a variety of peripherals and applications designed to make computers more ergonomically friendly. Here's a list of the products reviewed - click on each one to learn more about the features and operating requirements.

Devices:
3M Rennaissance Mouse (PS/2) - $49.95. This mouse "stick" operates similar to a joystick and is available in three sizes -- S, M, L, but only in a right-handed model.

Cirque Cruise Cat Internet Touchpad (Serial, PS/2 - adapter included) - $89.95
Two-button TouchPad with Iinternet functions - can be used either right- or left-handed. Able to be used concurrently with PS/2 Mouse if used on USB port.

Contour Perfit Mouse (Serial, PS/2 or USB) - Serial or PS/2, $89.95; USB, $99.95
Three-button ergonomic mouse, no scrolling wheel, available in five right-hand and three left-hand sizes.

Microsoft Intellimouse Optical (USB or PS/2 - adapter included) - $49.95. Four-button mouse with wheel, can be used in either left- or right-hand modes. The tester calls it "the most comfortable and trouble-free mouse I've ever owned."

Microsoft Trackball Optical. (USB or PS/2 - adapter included) - $69.90. Four-button thumb-operated trackball with scrolling wheel, available in right-handed version only.

Software:
Dragon Naturally Speaking Professional version 4 - $489.95. Voice recognition/dictation software that will allow dictation within Microsoft Office 97 and 2000 applications. Comes with high-quality headset, which was comfortable to wear and performed well. Tested under Windows 98 and Windows 2000.