Mouse

A mouse is the peripheral fitted with various buttons that controls the movement of the cursor on screen. The mouse contains a device that translates the movement of the mouse on a flat surface to the movement of the cursor. Mice use several methods to translate this movement, including mechanical (ball mouse), optical and laser.

Douglas Englebart invented the computer mouse in 1963, which used the rotation of two perpendicular gear wheels to translate motion. The mouse was originally referred to as an X-Y position indicator.

Mechanical Mouse

A mechanical mouse is a computer mouse that contains a rubber ball which is partly exposed on the under side of the mouse. When the mouse is moved, the ball is rolled and sensors inside the mouse detect this motion and translate that movement to the pointer on your display. Mechanical mice require a flat surface to function.

Optical Mouse

Optical mice use either an LED or laser to emit light which sensors in the mouse then translate into movement. Optical mice are generally much more accurate than mechanical mice. High performance laser mice are popular among gamers.