Using a Trackball Mouse on a Laptop
Do you have an idea what a trackball is? I apologize for the insulting introduction but I had to make it clear what this article is about. For those not familiar with it, trackballs are pointing devices that function just like a mouse. Actually, it is a mouse but doesn’t resemble a mouse in any way. I’d like to introduce the trackball to laptop users because ever since I’ve switched to it, I’ve never gone back to using the regular mouse.
Ever since the invention of the optical mouse or even the first-generation mice that utilized a rubber ball for the movement, the one thing I’ve disliked about it is the fact that it always required a particular surface for it to function well. This is especially true for optical mice. You can’t use it on shiny surfaces because the laser just bounces back. I’ve always disliked using a mouse pad because I often run my mouse off the edges which required me to relocate the mouse to the center of the mouse pad to continue using it. This is not a problem with the trackball.
Trackballs look more like spaceships than pointing devices. It comes in various designs but one thing distinctly identifies it as a trackball the moment anyone sees it and that is the big ball on top. This big ball is responsible for controlling movement. Unlike the regular mouse, it does not require any particular surface for it to function properly. This is because the control for movement is located above the unit and not beneath it. That means that you can use it anywhere with comfort. Have you ever tried using a mouse inside a car? If you have, then you probably know what I mean. The most typical trackballs have two buttons but some have more than that. These buttons are fully customizable to provide more functionality at the click of a button. It works great with laptops. The only disadvantage with trackballs is its size. It is often bigger than a typical mouse but if you have the extra space in your laptop case, then this won’t be a problem. It is also much more expensive compared to the mouse especially with the optical versions but overall, I believe it is still worth it.
You must first get the hang of using it before you can truly appreciate it. Once you do, I’m sure you’ll agree that it is a great device and a must-have for any laptop user.