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How To Clean Kensington Trackball? (Fact Checked)

    ✅ Fact Checked
    Updated on January 25, 2023
    John Chad, Bachelor Computer Science Degree & Computer Engineering.
    Written by
    John Chad, Bachelor Degree in Computer Science & Computer Engineering.
    Russel Collins
    Fact Checked by
    Russel Collins
    John is a certified IT & Computer Engineer with a Bachelors Degree. He has worked for a International Insurance Company in the IT department before deciding to become a full time blogger to help his readers. Holds a Bachelors Degree in Computer Science from Stanford University.

    Fun Fact
    Did you know that the first trackball was invented in 1946 by Ralph Benjamin as a way to control the movement of a cursor on an oscilloscope screen? He called it a “roller ball” and it was primarily used for military radar displays! The first trackball for computer use was invented in 1952 by Tom Cranston and Fred Longstaff. They called it a “joystick” and it was used for the Royal Canadian Navy’s DATAR system. Today, trackballs are used for a variety of applications such as gaming, graphic design, and CAD.
    Hey there, have you been using your Kensington trackball for a while now and noticed it’s not as smooth as it used to be? It’s probably time for a good cleaning. A trackball is a great alternative to a traditional mouse, but it does require a bit more maintenance. If you’re using your trackball for hours every day, dirt and dust can build up inside and make it less responsive. But don’t worry, cleaning your Kensington trackball is easy and only takes a few minutes. In this article, I’ll walk you through the process step by step so you can get back to enjoying smooth cursor movement. So, let’s get started, and learn How To Clean Kensington Trackball!

    1Materials Needed

    Alright, before we dive into cleaning your Kensington trackball, let’s talk about the materials you’ll need. Having everything on hand before you start will make the process go smoothly.

    First, you’ll need a small brush. This can be a toothbrush or a small, soft-bristled brush. The brush is used to gently scrub away dirt and debris from the exterior of the trackball.

    Next, you’ll need a lint-free cloth. This is important because regular cloths can leave fibers behind which can get caught in the trackball and cause it to become less responsive. A microfiber cloth or a coffee filter work great.

    Finally, you’ll want to have a small amount of mild cleaning solution on hand. This can be something as simple as warm water or a mixture of water and mild dish soap. The key here is to use something that is safe for electronics and won’t damage the trackball.

    With these materials, you’ll have everything you need to give your Kensington trackball a thorough cleaning and get it working like new again. Remember to be gentle when cleaning the trackball and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the trackball.

    2Disassembling the Trackball

    Alright, now that you have your materials ready, it’s time to disassemble your trackball.

    First things first, make sure your trackball is unplugged and turned off. You don’t want any surprises while you’re working on it.

    The process of disassembling your trackball will vary depending on the model, so it’s best to consult your user manual for specific instructions. However, generally speaking, most trackballs can be taken apart by removing the cover and the ball itself.

    To remove the cover, you may need to use a small screwdriver or release tabs that are located on the bottom of the trackball. Take your time and be gentle, you don’t want to damage anything.

    Once the cover is removed, you should be able to see the ball itself. It may be held in place by a small retaining ring or clip. Carefully remove the ball and set it aside.

    It’s important to note that you might want to take a picture or make a note of how the trackball is assembled, so you don’t forget how to put it back together.

    With the cover and ball removed, you’ll be able to see the interior of the trackball and access all the nooks and crannies that need cleaning.

    In the next step, you’ll learn how to clean the trackball, and make it like a brand new one.

    3Cleaning the Trackball

    Alright, you’ve disassembled your trackball, and now it’s time to give it a good cleaning.

    First, take your small brush and lint-free cloth, and gently scrub the exterior of the trackball to remove any dirt and debris. Be sure to pay attention to the buttons and scroll wheel as well. Use the small brush to get into any crevices or hard-to-reach areas.

    Next, take the ball itself and give it a good cleaning. You can use the small brush and lint-free cloth to gently scrub it, or use a damp cloth if necessary. Make sure it’s completely dry before reassembling.

    Now it’s time to clean the interior of the trackball. Use a small brush or Q-tip to gently remove any debris you find inside. You can use your mild cleaning solution to help remove any stubborn grime. Just be sure to avoid getting any liquid inside the trackball.

    Once you’ve finished cleaning the exterior, ball and interior of the trackball, it’s time to reassemble it. Make sure you put everything back together in the same way you took it apart, and be gentle when handling the trackball.

    With your trackball clean and reassembled, you should notice a significant improvement in its performance. You’ve just saved yourself the cost of buying a new one and you’re back to enjoying smooth cursor movement.

    4Reassembling the Trackball

    Alright, you’ve finished cleaning your trackball and it’s time to put it back together. Remember to take your time, and be gentle to avoid any damage.

    Start by reinserting the ball into the trackball. Make sure it’s securely in place and that it moves smoothly.

    Next, place the cover back on the trackball, making sure that all the parts align correctly. You might need to use a screwdriver or press release tabs to secure it in place.

    It’s important to make sure that the cover is securely fastened in place. Double-check that everything is in place and that there are no loose parts.

    Finally, plug the trackball back in and turn it on. Give it a test run to make sure everything is working smoothly. Remember to take your time and not to rush, this way you’ll be sure that everything is in place and working as it should.

    And that’s it! You’ve just successfully cleaned and reassembled your trackball. Now you can enjoy smooth cursor movement, and you’ve saved yourself the cost of buying a new one. So keep in mind, to handle your trackball gently and enjoy it for a long time.

    5FAQ

    How do you clean a Kensington Expert mouse trackball?

    Hey there, are you having trouble getting your Kensington Expert Mouse Trackball to move smoothly? It might be time for a cleaning! Don’t worry, it’s a quick and easy process that can make a big difference in the performance of your trackball.

    First, you’ll need to gather your materials. You’ll need a small brush, a lint-free cloth, and a small amount of mild cleaning solution.

    Next, you’ll need to disassemble the trackball. This can be done by removing the cover and the ball itself. Consult your user manual for specific instructions on how to disassemble your specific model.

    Once the trackball is disassembled, use the small brush and lint-free cloth to gently scrub the exterior, paying special attention to the buttons and scroll wheel. For the ball itself, you can use the small brush or a damp cloth.

    Now it’s time to clean the interior of the trackball. Use a small brush or a Q-tip to gently remove any debris inside. You can use your mild cleaning solution to help remove any stubborn grime. Just be sure to avoid getting any liquid inside the trackball.

    Finally, reassemble the trackball and give it a test run to make sure everything is working smoothly. Remember to handle your trackball gently to avoid any damage.

    And there you have it! A quick and easy cleaning that can

    How do you keep trackballs clean?

    Keeping your trackball clean is essential for smooth cursor movement and longevity of your device. But don’t worry, it’s not as difficult as it sounds. Here are a few tips to keep your trackball in tip-top shape:

    First and foremost, regular cleaning is key. Set aside a little time every few weeks to give your trackball a good cleaning. All you need is a small brush, a lint-free cloth, and a small amount of mild cleaning solution.

    Another way to keep your trackball clean is by using a cover. A cover can help protect your trackball from dust and debris. Just make sure to remove the cover and give it a good cleaning every once in a while.

    When you’re using your trackball, try to keep your hands clean. Oils from your hands can transfer to the trackball and make it difficult to clean.

    Lastly, if you’re using your trackball in a dirty environment, try to keep it covered when not in use. This can help protect it from dust and debris.

    By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to keep your trackball clean and enjoy smooth cursor movement for a long time.

    How do you open a Kensington trackball mouse?

    Are you tired of using a regular old mouse? Want to switch things up with a trackball mouse? Look no further than the Kensington trackball mouse! But before you can start using it, you’ll need to know how to open it.

    First, locate the small button on the bottom of the mouse. This is the release button.
    Next, gently press down on the button and lift the top cover of the mouse.
    Voila! You now have access to the trackball and can start using your new Kensington trackball mouse.

    Just a heads up, when you close the cover again, make sure it is securely closed. You don’t want the top cover to pop open while you’re in the middle of a intense gaming session or important work project.

    So don’t wait any longer, open that Kensington trackball mouse and start experiencing the benefits of a trackball mouse today!

    How do you keep trackballs smooth?

    Are you the proud owner of a trackball mouse? Then you know the importance of a smooth trackball. But over time, even the best trackballs can start to feel a little rough around the edges. Fear not, my friend, because there are a few simple steps you can take to keep your trackball running like new.

    First things first, regular cleaning is key. Use a soft cloth or cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol to gently wipe away any dirt or grime that has accumulated on the trackball. This will remove any debris that may be causing friction.

    Next, make sure the trackball is well-lubricated. You can use a small amount of machine oil or silicon lubricant on the trackball to keep it running smoothly. Just be sure to use a small amount and wipe away any excess.

    Finally, avoid using the trackball on surfaces that can scratch or damage it, like rough surfaces or glass tables. This will ensure that the trackball stays in top condition for as long as possible.

    By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a smooth trackball experience for years to come. So go ahead, give your trackball a little TLC, and experience the benefits of a well-maintained trackball mouse.

    6Conclusion

    Well, there you have it! You’ve just learned how to give your trackball a thorough cleaning and make it work like new again. By following the step-by-step instructions, you’ve successfully disassembled, cleaned, and reassembled your trackball.

    It’s important to remember that a trackball is a great alternative to a traditional mouse, but it does require a bit more maintenance. By regularly cleaning your trackball, you’ll be able to enjoy smooth cursor movement for a long time.

    And remember, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on expensive cleaning solutions. All you need is a small brush, a lint-free cloth, and a small amount of mild cleaning solution. With these materials, you’ll have everything you need to give your trackball a good cleaning.

    So, don’t wait any longer, gather your materials and give your trackball a good cleaning. It will be back to working like new in no time. And remember, handle your trackball gently to avoid any damage.