IBM H SERIES RS/6000 - Manual (Page 29)

Caring for the Mouse
The operating surface for the mouse should be smooth, clean, and flat. For
example, you can operate the mouse on the following surfaces:
Finished wood
Glass
Enamel
Plastic
Paper (except newspaper)
Metal
Rough surfaces collect contaminants that can be transferred to the interior of the
mouse by the ball. The surface you use should be free from spills, dirt, dust, lint,
wax, eraser dust, and other foreign matter. Rough surfaces can also cause the pads
located on the bottom of the mouse to prematurely wear. A deeply pitted surface
could cause erratic operation of the mouse.
Inspect the work surface for spills or other contaminants.
Dust the work surface.
If you are using a paper pad, inspect it for wear and replace it if necessary.
Chapter 2. Using the System Unit 2-9