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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