An optical trackball is a device used for navigating computer content. It has a fixed base, a ball with dots that are read by infrared sensors, and buttons for clicking. Optical trackballs offer more precise tracking than non-optical ones and are not affected by dust or dirt. They are also ergonomic and take up less desk space than a mouse. They can be connected to the computer via USB, serial port, or wireless access and can be incorporated into the keyboard design.
An optical trackball is a computing device that allows the user to select or navigate through computer content. It contains a fixed base, a protruding ball housed in a socket, and one or more buttons that allow the user to perform click functions. Some optical trackballs also contain a scroll wheel to make scrolling through websites and documents easier.
The ball portion of the optical trackball is covered with dots arranged in a pattern. As the user manipulates the ball with their fingertips, infrared optical sensors read the movement of the dots and send the data to the computer. This feature may allow for more precise tracking of movement than non-optical trackballs, as non-optical sensors simply read the rotation of the ball in two axes. An added benefit of optical trackballs over their non-optical counterparts is that they detect motion optically; dust, dirt and skin oils do not interfere with motion detection. However, the ball and sensors should be cleaned regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure optimum function.
Some advantages of the optical trackball are that it takes up less desk space than a conventional mouse. No mouse pad is needed as the ball is the only part of the trackball that moves. Many optical trackballs also offer ergonomic benefits to their users. Some are designed so that the wrist remains in a neutral position. Additionally, many can be operated by either hand, allowing users the freedom to switch hands as desired.
Trackballs designed specifically for left-handed users aren’t readily available, so left-handed users typically choose an optical trackball that can be used by the left hand, or simply adapt to using the trackball with the right hand. Wrist rests made of gel or other materials can increase the comfort of using a trackball.
Trackballs are most commonly sold as single units connected to your computer via USB, serial port, or wireless access. Some trackballs can be incorporated into the keyboard design. Keyboards that include a trackball usually house it in the upper right corner of the keyboard. Laptop computers sometimes contain trackballs, although these have largely been replaced by touchpads. Trackballs can also be sold as thumb-sized balls that attach to the side of the keyboard. Most trackballs found on laptops and computer keyboards are not optical, although some keyboards have optical trackballs.
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