The 'Mouse' is a very popular way of controlling the screen cursor. It also makes it very easy to re-size, close and open windows. It is used for generally controlling software through the use of on-screen 'menus'. Description: A mouse fits naturally within the palm of your hand. As you slide your arm back and forth along the desk, the mouse will detect this movement and input
X-Y' (left-right, forward-backwards) data into the computer. This data is usually used to control the screen cursor. There are also switches on the mouse that you depress to cause 'click' data to be input. These 'clicks' are used to control screen menus. Some mice also have a little wheel in the middle that you rotate with your finger. This wheel data is often used to scroll within windows. The Mouse is often connected to the computer by a wire that plugs into the back of the machine. There are also 'wireless' mice available that make use of radio signals rather than wires to connect to the computer. There are two common types of mechanisms to detect your hand movements.
'Roller ball' - a rolling ball is encased within the body that rolls as you move the mouse around. Have a look at your mouse - do you see a ball underneath? 'Optical' mouse - this shines a light down on to the desk that detects the mouse moving along. Look at your mouse - is there a red light underneath?
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| 'Trackball Mouse' - The idea behind this device is to reduce the movement your wrist has to make, thus reducing the chances of Repetitive Strain Injury. You place your hand on it then you roll your thumb along the ball to control the cursor. The switches on the right activate commands in the same way as a standard mouse. |  |
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