Detecting and dealing with input lag
September 27th, 2010
One common complaint with wireless networks is that they run slower than wired ones, although the degree of difference can vary widely. When conducting business over a wireless internet network, the slower speeds often go unnoticed. However, a similar problem affects wireless input devices, and this can create problems for those who rely on split-second responses, such as scientists or gamers.The Human Benchmark Reaction Time Test can establish the difference between input times between a wired and wireless mouse. It’s important to run a number of tests to achieve accurate results, as human error will naturally lower your response time. Lag can also be detected when scrolling through items in a list, as Matt Braga of Tested.com points out. Of course, detecting the problem is one thing. Solving it is another. Replacing the input device with a wired alternative is an easy fix, but not always a practical one. Read the rest of this entry »