Term of the Moment
cloud storage
Definition: mouse
The primary pointing device on a desktop computer. Laptops have the equivalent in a built-in trackpad, although many users prefer a mouse that plugs into a USB port or connects via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or other wireless method (see USB dongle). Earlier mice plugged into the PS/2 port. See USB and PS/2 port.
Relative vs. Absolute
Mouse movement is relative. For example, a mouse can be moved across your stomach, and the screen cursor would move from its existing location the same angle and distance. In contrast, the mouse-like object on a graphics tablet, called a "tablet cursor" or "puck," can be relative or absolute. In absolute mode, placing the stylus on the upper left part of the tablet makes the cursor appear on the upper left side of the screen. See pointing device, scroll mouse, mechanical mouse, optical mouse, Magic Mouse and mickey.
Mice Are Not Always Friendly
It is well known that hours of clicking can strain the wrist (see carpal tunnel syndrome). In addition, there is way too much mouse movement in today's desktop software. Very often, the next obvious item to select is at the other end of the screen, and screens are getting larger every year. See good user interface.
The First Mouse
One Size Does Not Fit All
A Variety of Critters
Relative vs. Absolute
Mouse movement is relative. For example, a mouse can be moved across your stomach, and the screen cursor would move from its existing location the same angle and distance. In contrast, the mouse-like object on a graphics tablet, called a "tablet cursor" or "puck," can be relative or absolute. In absolute mode, placing the stylus on the upper left part of the tablet makes the cursor appear on the upper left side of the screen. See pointing device, scroll mouse, mechanical mouse, optical mouse, Magic Mouse and mickey.
Mice Are Not Always Friendly
It is well known that hours of clicking can strain the wrist (see carpal tunnel syndrome). In addition, there is way too much mouse movement in today's desktop software. Very often, the next obvious item to select is at the other end of the screen, and screens are getting larger every year. See good user interface.
Invented by Doug Engelbart in the 1960s at Stanford Research Institute (SRI), it used two moving wheels 90 degrees apart. Subsequent mechanical mice were similar but with rubberized trackballs moving internal wheels. (Image courtesy of The Bootstrap Institute.)
Contour Design used to make mice in many sizes for a perfect fit. Today, they make a variety of mouse alternatives. (Image courtesy of Contour Design, Inc.)
All kinds of mouse designs have come and gone over the years. (Image courtesy of Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), Brian Tramontana, Photographer.)