Perhaps everyone saw a computer mouse. This is a necessary device for working at a computer. Using it, they click, switch between objects, control movements in games, etc. So, the mouse manipulator is an input device. There are many different types at the moment. In the article, each of them will be considered in detail.
Direct drive mouse
It was in this form that the manipulator was originally invented: 2 wheels protruded from the body, which were directed perpendicular to each other. One was responsible for horizontal movements, the other - vertically. When moving, they both spun. Of course, the movement was not very accurate, and the rotation was often difficult. The very first mouse-type manipulator was created in 1963 by Douglas Engelbart.
Optomechanical mouse
The next stage in the development of the device is the mouse ball. This device is well remembered by those who began to "make friends" with computer technology in the 90s. In the lower part of the case there was a hole through which a rubber ball peered out. Inside the mouse, there were sensors that recorded data on the movements of the ball. She worked without problems only on special rugs, as on smooth surfaces, the ball did not turn.
In addition, through the hole in the housing, trash and pet hair constantly got inside, so the roller periodically had to be cleaned, otherwise it would “jam” and not turn. However, for a long time it was the ball mouse computer mouse that was considered the best, until it was replaced by more advanced optical devices.
First Generation Optical Mouse
The first competitor ballpoint. I was unable to oust her because of some shortcomings, which will be described below.
Inside the mouse there was a special diode that monitored the movement of the manipulator on the surface. Thanks to this, the cursor movements on the monitor become more accurate. However, the graphic mouse manipulator worked only if there was a special rug on which orienting stripes were applied. The device did not respond to other surfaces. Each mouse model had its own mat. When replacing it with another device, it did not read landmarks. The manipulator was very sensitive to pollution. It was also necessary to orient the substrate and the mouse in a certain way, otherwise the latter worked incorrectly. This whole kit was quite expensive, so ordinary users preferred a ball manipulator.
Optical led mouse
This device was no longer dependent on the mat and could work even without it. Best LED perceived monophonic surface. Therefore, the second-generation optical mouse easily replaced all of its predecessors. At the same stage, specialized computer mice - gaming mice - began to appear.
The principle of operation here is completely different: nothing is spinning inside the case, but an LED and a camera are installed. The first illuminates the rug or any other surface, and the second takes micrographs at high speed (up to 1000 per second). Photos are processed by a microprocessor, which converts them into space movements.
Laser mouse
A modern, well-known manipulator. In appearance, it is practically no different from LED, but a laser is used for backlighting. Thanks to this, the camera takes clearer pictures. As a result, the accuracy of movements increases. The laser mouse can work on any surface, including a mirrored one. A mat for comfortable work is not required. Gaming computer mice are mostly of this type.
Trackball
Apparently, the creators of this mouse remembered that the movements of the ball manipulator were much more accurate if you rotate the roller with your fingers. Therefore, they developed a device where you can rotate the trackball manually. It looks like a ball mouse on the contrary: a convex ball is on the outside of the case, and it can be rotated with your fingers or palm. You do not need to move the manipulator.
Of course, the trackball mice are created using more advanced technologies, in particular, they are much lighter than ball-mice, the roller itself rotates easily, but it sits in the nest more tightly and does not collect so much garbage. Again, it uses not only mechanical, but also optical displacement sensors .
Induction mouse
The main difference is that it does not need a separate power source (batteries or wire). The manipulator works due to the induction energy received from the mat. The latter is connected to the computer. It works on the principle of a graphic tablet. This connection method provides greater accuracy of movements, which is especially important when working with graphics. However, induction mice have a big drawback: the induction mouse mouse is a device attached to a particular rug. Set items are not replaceable. Such a manipulator can only work on a rug, on other surfaces - no.
Gyroscopic mouse
One of the novelties of the modern market. It is equipped with a gyroscope, which allows you to navigate in three-dimensional space. In other words, the mouse is no longer attached to any surface in order to correctly read information about its movements. You can pick it up and, without using a table, rug, etc., control the cursor simply by moving the brush in the air. Such a mouse can even be compared in part with a conductor's baton.
This type has not yet been widely sold and is not found in every electronics store.
The mouse manipulator is a device that still has many perspectives and hidden possibilities. Most likely, after 10-15 years, their appearance will change beyond recognition. And those mice that most people are used to will go to the archives along with floppy disks and cassettes.