A computer mouse is a small handheld hardware input device that controls the movement of the cursor on a computer screen and allows users to move and select folders, text, files, and icons. It is an integral part of the graphical user interface (GUI) of any personal computer. The mouse detects two-dimensional motion relative to a surface, which is typically translated into the motion of the pointer on a display, allowing for smooth control of the GUI. The mouse typically has two buttons, a scroll wheel, and a laser sensor. The left button is used to select objects, while the right button is used to open menus that are different depending on where the cursor is. The scroll wheel allows users to scroll through documents or web pages.
The first mouse was invented in 1964 by Douglas Engelbart, a computer scientist at the Stanford Research Institute. The mouse was not widely adopted until the early 1980s when Apple Computer introduced the Macintosh computer with a mouse as its standard input device. Today, many modern mice are cordless, relying on short-range radio communication with the connected system.
In addition to the standard features, some mice also have touch surfaces and additional buttons, which enable additional control and dimensional input. There are different types of mice used with a computer, including mechanical, optical, touchpad, and air mouse. The mouse is more accurate and faster than other input devices, such as keyboards, for tasks such as clicking on small objects and selecting text. It is also more comfortable to use than other input devices for extended periods of time.
In summary, a computer mouse is a small handheld hardware input device that controls the movement of the cursor on a computer screen and allows users to move and select folders, text, files, and icons. It is an integral part of the graphical user interface (GUI) of any personal computer. The mouse typically has two buttons, a scroll wheel, and a laser sensor. The first mouse was invented in 1964, and today, many modern mice are cordless.
