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    RF, Bluetooth, wired USB mice -- what draws the least power?

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by flatulatorX, Oct 21, 2012.

  1. flatulatorX

    flatulatorX Notebook Consultant

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    I would like to know what technology draws the least power from a notebook. Searched the web and didn't find anything useful.

    Wired vs Wireless -- one would think that wired USB draws the least power, but the notebook has to power the wired mouse's laser and all, whereas a wireless mouse is powered by its own battery and the notebook only has to power the transceiver. So which one actually takes more power from the notebook?

    Bluetooth vs RF
    • I believe earlier versions of BT devices drew more power than comparable RF devices. But is this still true with newer devices (BT version 2.1 and up)? I might assume so because Class 2 specification (2.5mW, 10m range) back then is the same as it is now.
    • Even if it is still true that RF < BT in power draw, is the difference enough to worry about? I think if the BT transceiver on the notebook end is also Class 2, perhaps the difference is not much. But if it is Class 1 (100mW, 100m range) on the notebook end, then there would be a sizable difference. Are most notebooks, like my Vaio Z790, Class 2?

    It's quite obvious I'm no electrical engineer. Would appreciate your input.
     
    flatulatorX, Oct 21, 2012
    #1