Mouse Drivers
The humble computer mouse is an input device that helps you to interact with your computer. With a mouse, you can position the cursor on the computer screen and control the graphical user interface. The world's first computer mouse was patented in 1970 and was described as an "X-Y Position Indicator for a Display System." Douglas Engelbart was awarded patent #3,541,541 for this device.
The mouse didn't gain widespread use until Apple adopted it in 1984. Once Windows was introduced, the mouse took off! Today, just about all computers use a mouse though other input devices can be used in the mouse's place. The mouse remains popular because it's easy to use. Simply point and click or drag and drop.
Computer mice formerly connected to computers using a small cable that looked like a mouse tail. However, wireless mice are now common. Another innovation in computer mouse design is the move from physical track balls to optical pointing devices. The old track balls allowed computer mice to move in any direction but often became clogged with dust and debris. The mouse required a special mouse pad for smooth operation. Optical computer mice use a beam of light rather than a mechanical ball. Optical computer mice do not require a special surface.
Alternative input devices have threatened the mouse's position but so far none have toppled the mouse as a favorite input device. For example, trackballs are often used in place of computer mice. The advantage of using a trackball is that the unit remains stationary - only the ball is moved. However, many people find using such a device awkward. Touch pads are commonly used on laptop computers, though most laptop users plug in a USB mouse when working at their desks.
Logitech is by far the leading computer mouse manufacturer. Among their innovations is the cordless air mouse. Laser tracking and "Freespace" motion technology make this computer mouse decidedly high-tech. Wave and click control along with hand gesture controls have given the computer mouse wings. Other innovations from Logitech include Bluetooth computer mice, gaming mice, and interchangeable grips.
Razer manufactures computer mice specifically for the needs of gamers. These high performance computer mice feature precision controls, adjustable sensitivity, and multiple programmable buttons. Plus, they look cool.
Other innovations in mouse design include Sony's Skype mouse. This mouse doubles as a Skype telephone. Simply flip open the mouse to take a Skype phone call. When the call is over, snap it shut and get back to the business of computing.
Clearly, the computer mouse has evolved from an X-Y Position Indicator for a Display System into a useful pointing device. The cables are disappearing and the mouse is taking flight. A simple flick of the wrist and you can control your computer from afar. While other input devices exist, the mouse continues to be the leading device in this class.
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