Consider the following statements regarding the evolution of the computer mouse:

1. The first generation of computer mice used a mechanical trackball system, where a rolling ball transferred motion to internal rollers to detect movement.

2. Optical mice detect movement by using a light source and a sensor, which analyze changes in the reflected light pattern as the mouse moves.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct answer is option 3.

In News

• An article about the functioning of computer mouse has appeared in The Hindu Newspaper.

Key Points

• The mechanical trackball mouse had a rolling ball on its underside, which moved against two perpendicular rollers detecting motion along the X and Y axes.
  • The rollers were connected to encoder wheels, which interrupted a light beam, converting motion into electrical signals for cursor movement.
  • Regular cleaning was necessary to maintain accuracy, as dust and debris could affect the ball’s movement. Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
• Optical mice replaced the trackball with a light-based system, using an LED or laser to illuminate the surface.
  • A sensor detects changes in the reflected light pattern as the mouse moves, converting these changes into signals for cursor movement.Optical mice are more precise and require less maintenance compared to mechanical mice, as they have no moving parts prone to wear. Hence, Statement 2 is correct.

Additional Information

• The first optical mouse was introduced by Microsoft in 1999 (IntelliMouse), improving tracking accuracy.
• Laser mice, an advanced form of optical mice, offer higher sensitivity and work on a wider range of surfaces than traditional LED-based optical mice.