Short answers, pulled from the story.
The Microsoft SideWinder 3D Pro was released in 1995. This device introduced a digital-optical tracking mechanism that used light sensors instead of physical contact points to ensure perfect accuracy without calibration.
The Microsoft SideWinder Precision Pro launched in 1997. It corrected the ergonomic flaws of its predecessor by featuring a rounded base and a wheel-based throttle while adding a shift button to double the number of possible button combinations.
The Microsoft SideWinder Force Feedback Pro was the first model to include force feedback technology. Released in 1997, this device used motors to provide tactile feedback to the user and was built on the design of the Precision Pro.
The Microsoft SideWinder Freestyle Pro was released in 1998. This unique gamepad used the physical movement of the controller to control up-down-left-right directions in analogue mode and was designed for games such as Motocross Madness.
The Microsoft SideWinder Strategic Commander arrived on the market in 2000. This highly ergonomic device featured 6 programmable command buttons, 2 zoom buttons, 3 shift buttons, and three movement axes for Real Time Strategy games.
Microsoft stopped offering SideWinder gaming mice and keyboards in the US as of October 2014. The company had previously released the SideWinder X8 gaming mouse in February 2009 and the Sidewinder X4 gaming keyboard in March 2010.