Mouse

A mouse is an input device used to control the movement of a pointer on a screen. It allows the user to interact with a computer by clicking on icons, selecting text, and controlling other interactive elements.

• Used for: Pointing, clicking, dragging items, navigating the operating system, and playing games.

• The left button is often used for selecting, while the right button is used for additional options or context menus.

📜 Origin:

• The mouse was invented by Douglas Engelbart in 1964 at the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) as part of a research project.

• The first mouse prototype was made of wood and used a ball that rolled on a surface.

• The concept of the mouse was first publicly demonstrated in 1968 at the Fall Joint Computer Conference.

🧠 Development:

• In 1980, Xerox developed the Xerox Alto computer, which included a mouse and graphical user interface (GUI).

• Apple further popularized the mouse in 1984 with the release of the Macintosh.

• Today, there are optical, laser, and wireless mice, along with ergonomic designs for better comfort.

🖥️ Types of Mice:

🧩 By Design:

1. Wired Mouse — Connects to the computer via USB or PS/2.

2. Wireless Mouse — Uses Bluetooth or radio frequency (RF) for communication.

3. Ergonomic Mouse — Designed to reduce strain on the wrist and hand.

4. Trackball Mouse — The ball is placed on top and used to move the pointer without moving the mouse.

5. Pen Mouse — Resembles a pen and is used for more precise control (often for design work).

⚙️ By Technology:

1. Mechanical Mouse

   • Uses a ball underneath to detect movement.

   • Old technology, less common now.

2. Optical Mouse

   • Uses light (LED) to detect movement on a surface.

   • More accurate than mechanical mice and works on most surfaces.

3. Laser Mouse

   • Uses laser light for higher precision.

   • Works on almost any surface, including glass.

4. Bluetooth Mouse

   • Connects wirelessly through Bluetooth.

   • Requires Bluetooth-enabled devices.

💡 Fun Fact:

• The first computer mouse had only one button.

• Modern mice often include additional buttons for extra functions, like forward/backward navigation in browsers.