The mouse is a computer input device in the same way as a keyboard, joystick or trackball. They are becoming more and more popular as standard supply with today's powerful computer systems.
When using a keyboard to govern a computer program, it can often prove laborious and awkward. With the introduction of the mouse and the addition of icons, it has allowed users to manage computers with much more ease. Programs have also been able to gain more flexibility.
The mouse can either be moved over a mat or a desk top. As the mouse is maneuvered the horizontal and vertical coordinates of the on screen cursor alter. The electronic pulses generated notify the computer of the precise alteration in position. The computer responds to this by checking the coordinates, and then transferring the cursor over the screen in the same direction. The computer can receive further commands if the mouse is pointed to an icon and then `clicked' with the mouse button. The computer can recognise each of these icons as well as other areas found on the screen. After the chosen icon has been identified, the command can then be carried out.
The mouse itself, rolls on a ball which rotates two slotted wheels mounted at right angles. Each of these wheels have two light-emitting diodes, and two photodiodes. As the wheel circles, light shines through the slots and creates an electronic signal in the photodiodes. The signals coming from the wheels gives the variations in the coordinates which are fed into the computer.
