Introduction

  Razer has returned, this time for real it appears. A new product is definitely indicative of this. Their new product carries on the snake species nomenclature, dubbed the Viper. For those of you who haven't heard of Razer, I'll clue you in. Razer makes mice specifically aimed at gamers. More information and history will be explained a little later.

  The Viper is very much a departure from their large and heavy ball mice. It's optical, has fewer buttons, is much lighter, smaller, and carries a completely new design. It's also half the price of the original Boomslang 2000. So, what are we waiting for? Let's get started.

The History of Razer

  Razer is not by any means new on the scene. Their history is one of overcoming turbulent times and unusual circumstances. Earthquakes, Typhoons, SARS, Bankruptcy, bad business relationships and god knows what else had plagued this small company's effort to deliver their flagship Boomslang mouse (now renamed and redesigned as the Boomer) to the masses. It has certainly been a roller coaster ride for Razer. But when I first heard they were releasing a new product, I was delighted that they were back for another go. Hopefully moving forward, they'll experience a little more success and a little less defeat. For a more comprehensive history of Razer, check out "The Razer Story."

  My personal history with the Razer brand begins in October of 1999 at the Frag 3 CPL Event. This is where I first encountered the Boomslang. It was big, heavy, and awkward. From discussions with various friends and acquaintances, I learned the first impression I had of the Boomslang was typical. It just doesn't feel right at first. But after a couple of hours of use, I was hooked. I've gone through three Boomslangs, staying monogamous to each one. No other mouse has been able to fulfill my needs as a serious gamer.

The Viper Design

  Because it was an evaluation unit, it came in a small, discreet cardboard box. The original Boomslangs came in lush round tin containers, so I'd be surprised if retail units of the Viper are packaged like my sample unit was.

  The design itself is very simple. It's somewhat reminiscent of other mice, yet retaining a distinct shape. Its measurements are roughly 4.75" x 2.375" x 1.5". It has the basic two button and wheel which doubles as a button. The enclosure is a translucent black.

  The images above display the overall shape of the Viper. The sides incorporate a "performance side rail." They are made of clear rubber/plastic and allow for better grip in addition to adding a great aesthetic effect to the mouse.

  The left and right click buttons are slightly slanted upwards and extend well past the mid section of the mouse. The back half of the mouse is very round and drops off almost perpendicular to the mousing surface. The mouse wheel is translucent white made up of a flexible rubber material.

   The undercarriage is just about as simple as one could be. Three round teflon feet keep the mouse sliding along freely for precise mouse movement. In between the optical sensor and the rear teflon foot is where the one and only screw holding this mouse together is located.

  The mouse is of course USB and installs similar to other USB products. Drivers are located on the Razer website where installation instructions are as well. Upon plugging it in, the red LED inside the Viper lights up emitting a neat red glow throughout the exterior of the mouse. After about a second of the mouse not being in use, the LED goes into idle mode and dims to about half brightness. This was very annoying when trying to get a good picture of it in the dark. All images above were taken while the mouse was active, thus the LED was at full brightness.