Relay-Version: version B 2.10 5/3/83; site utzoo.UUCP Path: utzoo!linus!genrad!decvax!harpo!eagle!mhuxt!mhuxi!mhuxa!houxm!hocda!spanky!burl!we13!ihnp4!ihuxf!schnable From: schnable@ihuxf.UUCP Newsgroups: net.micro Subject: Re: Question on the mouse, comments abou - (nf) Message-ID: <547@ihuxf.UUCP> Date: Tue, 28-Jun-83 20:23:09 EDT Article-I.D.: ihuxf.547 Posted: Tue Jun 28 20:23:09 1983 Date-Received: Wed, 29-Jun-83 09:40:48 EDT Lines: 33 Hal, While both a light pen and a mouse can be used to point at things, there are differences. A mouse has a much finer pointing resolution than a light pen (at least the light pens that I have used). If you are trying to draw something on the screen or to edit graphics (icons and the like), this can be very important. The light pen's pointing end is just too big and bulky, and it can obscure the view of what you are working on. Also, the mouse movements can be tracked. This allows you to sweep out areas and to rubber band lines. I have not seen this done with light pens. The mouse buttons are designed to fit naturally under the fingers when the mouse is held. Where would you put buttons on a light pen that did not interfere with tracking or with comfortable holding? On the other hand, pointing right at the screen does have certain advantages. It is more natural. But why use a light pen? Why not just use a touch sensitive screen and your finger? About a year ago I saw a comparison of various pointing devices in some fa.* gateway group. If anyone has a copy of this maybe they should post it. Does anyone have any references for a comparison of rats, pads, pens, balls, sticks and screens? (5 points: what have I missed?) Happy with my rodent, Andy Schnable IH BTL x2680 ihuxf!schnable