Where as a computer mouse moves over the table surface, the trackball is

The correct answer is Stationary.

Key Points

• A trackball is a pointing device consisting of a ball held by a socket, allowing the user to control the cursor by rotating the ball with their fingers or hand.
• Unlike a computer mouse, the trackball remains stationary while the user moves the ball to control the pointer on the screen.
• This stationary design helps in reducing the required desk space and is more suitable for constrained working areas.
• Trackballs are especially helpful for people with repetitive strain injuries (RSI) as they minimize wrist and arm movement.
• They are commonly used in specialized applications like CAD (computer-aided design), gaming, and industrial control systems.

Additional Information

• Trackball vs Mouse:
  • A mouse requires physical movement across a flat surface to track motion, whereas a trackball is operated by rolling the ball, keeping the device stationary.
  • Trackballs are beneficial for users with limited desk space or mobility issues.
• Types of Trackballs:
  • Thumb-operated: The ball is controlled using the thumb, while other fingers manage buttons.
  • Finger-operated: The ball is controlled using fingers, providing greater precision for detailed tasks.
• Advantages of Trackballs:
  • More ergonomic design reduces wrist strain.
  • Does not require a flat surface, making it versatile in various working environments.
  • Offers high precision and control, useful for design and gaming applications.
• Limitations of Trackballs:
  • May require a learning curve for users accustomed to traditional mice.
  • Less common in general consumer markets, often making them more expensive.