I think it's crucial to be able to swap out the batteries anytime I choose and not have to worry about the cords. Since batteries deteriorate with time and it's not simple to find a replacement for one after, say, five years, I didn't give it much thought if the cords worked out fine. I didn't think about the batteries if the cords weren't already convenient. A manufacturer going out of business is the worst case scenario, followed closely by the model being phased out. Batteries can be easily swapped out for others at any moment with compatible form-factor batteries in any quantity to suit personal choice and budgetary constraints. Also readily available are batteries of varying capacities. This approach is equally as malleable as the IBM PC's logic. - After more than two years of trouble-free operation with the TTC sensor in place of the worthless encoder, I am confident that the wheel problem has been resolved. This statement assures me the issue was fixed. You should check if the metal case of the encoder is stamped "TTS" and is visible to the left of the wheel by removing the cover immediately after purchase. - My emotions toward the magnet cover are ambivalent at best. It's practical, it's simple to fix, and when it falls, the flying cover takes the brunt of the impact so that less force is transferred to the main body. On the other hand, when you're in the middle of a fierce battle or a fit of righteous anger, you can really feel the cover crawling beneath your fingers. It's unfortunate, and I don't like it, so the fact that it doesn't happen often works to my benefit.