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Computer Mice Not All Input Term Paper

Because of the standardization and flexibility of the mouse, software developers have considerable leeway in their engineering. Alternates to the mouse such as the light pen and tablet do not provide users with as robust and diverse usages as the mouse. Mice, moreover, are inexpensive. Although users can opt for high-end mice, most standard mice and even optical and cordless mice are affordable for the average consumer. Early mice, contained in clumsy rectangular boxes, did not have the ergonomic or visual appeal of modern mice, which are easy and accessible for all users. Accessibility is another reason why the mouse has revolutionized computing. Disabled computer users who cannot access QWERTY keyboards can perform many functions using voice recognition software and basic mouse clicks.

Advancements in mouse technology have also enabled users to save considerable time and energy for their computing needs. For example, the right-click button often brings up menu items that the user would otherwise have to search for in the upper menu bar in most PC-based applications. Scroll mice, increasingly more common, allow users to scroll easily through Web pages and long documents. Without the scroll button let alone without the mouse, users would have to painstakingly hold down the arrow buttons to navigate through text. Mice allow for precise navigation within text or Web pages or within more robust software...

Many computer users rely exclusively on their mouse, rather than their keyboard, for their computing needs.
The mouse has become so much a part of the computer world as to change jargon and language. "Point and click" refers to the dual functionality of the mouse: to shift the position of the cursor and, using the left mouse button, to click on a desired option. Similarly, to "drag and drop" means to hold down the left mouse button and, maneuvering the mouse, move the file or other object to another visually-defined area on the screen. In addition to changing the ways software functions and changing computer jargon, the mouse has also transformed the design of computer workstations. While optical mice preclude the need for mouse pads, mouse pads have become popular gift items and computer desks leave ample room for the manipulation of the mouse.

With the mouse revolution also came problems related to repetitive strain injuries. As with any other repetitive movement, mouse maneuvering and pointing and clicking can take their toll on a person's joint health. Therefore, mouse manufacturers have been developing ergonomically-advanced mice that can curb the ill effects of too much mouse usage. Computer mice are generally safe, however, and most computer users can barely imagine using their PC without their little rodent-like companions.

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