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Optical
Optical mice use the same basic principle as opto-mechanical
mice, but they use different methods. Optical mice look the same as other
mice, but do not use a "ball". The optical mouse functions by measuring
the patterns of laser beams reflected from a mouse pad. In theory, the
mouse calculates the changes using horizontal and vertical sensors. One
major drawback of the optical mouse is its requirement for a special mouse
pad. This means the days of your favorite cartoon character would be short-ended
on an optical mouse pad. The optical mouse pad contains a grid-work of
lines that reflect the laser in different ways to simulate motion.
Trackball
Just like every component of the computer, everyone has an improvement,
addition, or change to make to a previous device. One day, someone came
up with the idea to flip the mouse over, and they called it a trackball.
A trackball allows for more detailed movement of the mouse pointer. The
mouse itself is motionless, but the motion comes from a giant ball in the
center that rotates by touch. The technology behind the ball is a pure
adoption of the opto-mechanical design. Trackballs have been modified into
many shapes and sizes and are rarely seen in the old "blocky" design.
On a personal note:
If you know someone who is physically impaired
in motor movements of the hands, and you would like them to be able to
use a computer. Try using a trackball. I have learned through personal
experience that the trackball allows the person to accommodate for their
individual problem.
Continue with the next section on Other Pointing
Devices.
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All material and images on these pages are copyright Joseph,Ed. This page was developed for the Thinkquest1999
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