Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Pointing devices


These devices are used to move an on-screen pointer or cursor (usually an arrow). They are commonly used with graphical user interfaces (GUIs)








Mouse


A pointing device found on most PCs. Sensors on the bottom of the mouse detect when the mouse is moved. Data about this movement is sent to the computer.

Often used to control the pointer in a GUI.



Touchpad / Trackpad







A pointing device found on most laptops. Used instead of a mouse since it takes up less space. The user moves a finger across the touch pad and this movement data is sent to the computer.
Usually used to control the pointer in a GUI.



Trackball / Tracker Ball



This pointing device is not moved about like a mouse, instead it has a large ball that the user spins. Data about which direction the ball is spun is passed to the computer.
It can be used to control a GUI pointer.

Tracker balls are often used by people with limited movement (disabled) or by the very young since they are easier to use than a mouse. Touch ScreenA touch screen is an alternative to a separate pointing device. With a touch screen the user selects items on the screen by touching the surface. This makes touch screen systems very intuitive and simple to use.

Often used for information terminals in public places e.g. libraries or museums where mice or keyboards may be stolen or damaged.

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