Have you ever wondered why the computer device used to control the cursor on the screen is called a mouse? The name ‘mouse’ might sound strange, but it is actually a pretty clever name for this device.
In this article, we will dive a bit deeper and uncover the history of the mouse, how it got its name, and why it’s still the primary method used to interact with the computer. Keep reading and you’ll quickly understand why this device is still called a mouse.
Why is a Computer Mouse called a Mouse?
As computers have been around for decades, users have come across a variety of input devices.One of the most common and important input devices is the mouse. It’s so named because of its resemblance to the small rodent of the same name.
The Origin of the Mouse
The mouse originated as a device used in a research project at the Stanford Research Institute in the 1960s.A research team, including Douglas Engelbart, developed a device for interactivity with a computer. Engelbart called it the “X-Y Position Indicator for a Display System” and it became the first mouse.
Usability of the Mouse
The mouse proved to be a useful input device for interacting with a computer.It was easier and more intuitive to use than the keyboard and proved to be much more efficient for pointing and clicking on objects.
Description of the Mouse
The mouse is a small device that is connected to a computer via a cable or wirelessly.It usually looks like a small box with two buttons and a finger-like protrusion at the top. This finger-like protrusion is used to move the mouse across a flat surface.
Advantages of the Mouse
The mouse has several advantages over other input devices, such as:- It requires very little skill to operate.
- It is highly accurate when used in combination with a graphical user interface.
- It offers much greater maneuverability than a keyboard.
- It is comfortable and easy to use.