Subject: IBM -
Mouse balls & Mouse
ball inspector
I don't know how they
wrote this with a
straight face.
This was a real memo
sent out by IBM to its
employees in all
seriousness.
It went to all field
engineers about a
computer peripheral
problem.
The author of this
memo was quite genuine.
The engineers rolled
on the floor!
Especially note the
last couple of sentences.
'If a mouse fails to
operate or should it
perform erratically,
it may need a ball
replacement.
Mouse balls are now
available as FRU
(Field Replacement Units)
Because of the delicate
nature of this procedure,
a replacement of mouse
balls should only be
attempted by properly
trained personnel.
Before proceeding,
determine the type of
mouse balls by examining
the underside of the mouse.
Domestic balls will be
larger and harder than
foreign balls.
Ball removal procedures
differ depending upon
the manufacturer of
the mouse.
Foreign balls can be
replaced using the pop
off method.
Domestic balls are
replaced by using the
twist off method.
Mouse balls are not
usually static sensitive.
However, excessive
handling can result
in sudden discharge.
Upon completion of
ball replacement, the
mouse may be used
immediately.
It is recommended that
each person have a pair
of spare balls for
maintaining optimum
customer satisfaction.
Any customer missing
his balls should contact
the personal on removing
and replacing these
necessary items.
Please keep in mind
that a customer without
properly working balls
is an unhappy customer.