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Most mouse scroll-wheels have an indent that makes them
rotate in discrete increments. I imagine this was done to make pages scroll up and down in predictable steps, and to provide both tactile and audible feedback. While many
people like this, I find that using a mouse wheel without indents is faster,
quieter, and more precise. The difference is especially noticeable when
scrolling through long .pdf files (some mice will free-wheel), when zooming in
or out in very small increments, and when controlling sound volume precisely.
Removing the indent is pretty easy, but if you're not
comfortable working with electronics, you should enlist the help of someone who
is. I've done this eight times without any problems. Warning: performing this procedure will void
the warranty on your mouse (if such things concern you).
First, you'll need a small Phillips-head screwdriver,
small needle-nose pliers, and a bright desk lamp. Before doing anything, unplug
the mouse from the computer or, if it
is the wireless type, remove the batteries. Now disassemble
the mouse. There are usually between one and four small screws holding the two
halves of the mouse together. If you are even marginally mechanically-inclined
(as I am, much to the chagrin of my parents when I was five), you will figure out
how to separate the two clamshell parts of the mouse. Remember: if you have to
use much force, you're doing it incorrectly.
There are (at least) two types of indents: one where a metal
clip presses against the inside of the wheel (top photo), and one where the
plastic wheel support has a protrusion pressing against the inside or side of
the wheel (bottom photo). Using needle-nose pliers, carefully remove the metal
clip or bend the plastic protrusion until it no longer touches the wheel. Re-assemble
the mouse, plug it in or replace the batteries, and start your computer.
Now, in Windows, navigate to Start > Control
Panel > Mouse > Wheel. Here, you can adjust the mouse sensitivity to your
liking.
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