Mouse Keys
Published by dipti, on February 29th, 2012, in the categories: Alternative To Mouse
An alternative to using a mouse is to use mouse keys. Whether you are using a laptop or a desktop you can use mouse keys to operate your computer. Mouse keys are nothing but, using the number pad keys to move the cursor. Mouse Keys once enabled, uses either the number pad or arrow pad to control the movement of the computer’s cursor, as well as it allows you to customize other speed and sensitivity settings.
For instance, pressing 1 will move the cursor to the lower left side and pressing 8 will move the cursor up. Mouse keys are very useful for people who use the typing splint or mouth-stick. It may be slow but it offers a good control especially at situations where a person has to aim the cursor at small targets.
If you are using a laptop, mouse keys can be incredibly useful. Suppose your mouse dies and you do not have a mouse, you can use mouse keys temporarily till you get your mouse pad or mouse fixed. In case of a desktop, you can just turn on the NumLock on your keyboard and the mouse keys will be enabled. While Mouse Keys may not be the optimal way to move the cursor on any computer, it is much better than not having a mouse at all.
Steps to enable Mouse Keys on your computer -
How to use Mouse Keys
For instance, pressing 1 will move the cursor to the lower left side and pressing 8 will move the cursor up. Mouse keys are very useful for people who use the typing splint or mouth-stick. It may be slow but it offers a good control especially at situations where a person has to aim the cursor at small targets.
If you are using a laptop, mouse keys can be incredibly useful. Suppose your mouse dies and you do not have a mouse, you can use mouse keys temporarily till you get your mouse pad or mouse fixed. In case of a desktop, you can just turn on the NumLock on your keyboard and the mouse keys will be enabled. While Mouse Keys may not be the optimal way to move the cursor on any computer, it is much better than not having a mouse at all.
Steps to enable Mouse Keys on your computer -
- Click the START button one lower left hand corner of your windows screen and Go to Control Panel.
- In the Control Panel window, click on “Ease of Access” icon.
- In the Ease of Access window click on “Ease of Access Center”.
- Here, click on “Make the keyboard easier to use” option. Once you are at the Make the keyboard easier to use window, check on the box next to “Turn on Mouse Keys”. If you want to display the Mouse Keys icon on the taskbar, then check “Display the Mouse Keys icon on the taskbar”. To customize your Mouse Keys settings click on “Set up Mouse Keys”. Once done just click the APPLY button to finalize your Mouse Keys settings.
- To turn on the mouse keys, you have to press the “Fn” and “NumLock” key simultaneously.
How to use Mouse Keys
- Number 8 key on the number pad is used to make the cursor go up. Number 2 key is used to make the cursor go down. Number 4 will make the cursor move left, while pressing number 6 key makes the cursor go right. Number 7, 9, 3 and 1 keys are used to control diagonal directions. If you want the cursor to move faster then hold down the “Ctrl” key and press any of the mouse keys at the same time.
- To set the number 5 key to function as the left side button on the mouse, press the "/" key. To make it function as the right mouse button, press the "-" key. To double click, press the number 5 key twice but quickly.
Trackballs
Published by dipti, on February 20th, 2012, in the categories: Alternative To Mouse
A trackball is a good alternative to the typical mouse. It is basically an upside down mouse. Trackballs were quite popular before touch pads came out, but now they are included in most of the laptops. Trackballs may take some time to get used to control the computer curse but it is of great use in work areas that have very little space for extra devices. Often trackballs are used in CAD work stations, navigational equipment and game console controllers.
Trackballs versus Mouse
Trackballs has a case with the ball on the top, while in a mouse the ball lies underneath the casing. While using a mouse you will need to move the entire casing to move the cursor, but in the case of a trackball, you just need to move the ball with the help of your thumb or finger, while the casing sits stationary on the desk. Trackballs are really good in terms of ergonomic science, because there is minimal stress on the wrist because there is no sliding action of the hands.
Precision and Accuracy
Trackballs offer better precision and more flexibility in certain scenarios because there is nothing in between the ball and the user’s finger movement. While the mouse is more comfortable for most users to control the cursor, it isn’t very accurate because the ball of the mouse only senses the hand’s movement depending upon the pressure being applied. This is why trackballs are used in applications such as gaming, navigation control and design.
Accessibility and Size
In terms of accessibility, trackballs are better because they do not need a flat surface to be placed on. Therefore, you can use it on your lap or any other comfortable position. Also trackballs do not require extra space because there is no sliding movement of the hands. You just need enough space for the trackball. However, trackballs are quite bulky and larger and therefore can get uncomfortable for new users to rest his/her hand on. Although there is no need for much room with a trackball device because of the minimal hand movement for operating it, it does take up more desk space than a computer mouse because of the initial size.
Ease of Use
However, learning to use a trackball device is quite difficult, especially for users who are used to a mouse. A mouse is more comfortable for normal activities on a computer. But sometimes, in a mouse debris and dust can get accumulated underneath the ball and this can come in the way of the wheel and affect the cursor movement.
Price
A trackball, all though being around for several years, is much more expensive than a computer mouse. If a computer mouse costs around 20 dollars then a trackball would cost somewhere around 100 dollars.
If you are a user who wants precision and easy accessibility then, you shouldn’t hesitate in investing in a trackball. In the long run it also minimizes any sort of hand injuries, especially the wrist.
Trackballs versus Mouse
Trackballs has a case with the ball on the top, while in a mouse the ball lies underneath the casing. While using a mouse you will need to move the entire casing to move the cursor, but in the case of a trackball, you just need to move the ball with the help of your thumb or finger, while the casing sits stationary on the desk. Trackballs are really good in terms of ergonomic science, because there is minimal stress on the wrist because there is no sliding action of the hands.
Precision and Accuracy
Trackballs offer better precision and more flexibility in certain scenarios because there is nothing in between the ball and the user’s finger movement. While the mouse is more comfortable for most users to control the cursor, it isn’t very accurate because the ball of the mouse only senses the hand’s movement depending upon the pressure being applied. This is why trackballs are used in applications such as gaming, navigation control and design.
Accessibility and Size
In terms of accessibility, trackballs are better because they do not need a flat surface to be placed on. Therefore, you can use it on your lap or any other comfortable position. Also trackballs do not require extra space because there is no sliding movement of the hands. You just need enough space for the trackball. However, trackballs are quite bulky and larger and therefore can get uncomfortable for new users to rest his/her hand on. Although there is no need for much room with a trackball device because of the minimal hand movement for operating it, it does take up more desk space than a computer mouse because of the initial size.
Ease of Use
However, learning to use a trackball device is quite difficult, especially for users who are used to a mouse. A mouse is more comfortable for normal activities on a computer. But sometimes, in a mouse debris and dust can get accumulated underneath the ball and this can come in the way of the wheel and affect the cursor movement.
Price
A trackball, all though being around for several years, is much more expensive than a computer mouse. If a computer mouse costs around 20 dollars then a trackball would cost somewhere around 100 dollars.
If you are a user who wants precision and easy accessibility then, you shouldn’t hesitate in investing in a trackball. In the long run it also minimizes any sort of hand injuries, especially the wrist.
Ergonomics Keyboards with Trackball
Published by dipti, on February 20th, 2012, in the categories: Ergonomic keyboard and mouse
With the onset of spending long hours in the office, there is a need for ergonomic computer equipment, to make it a lot more comfortable and easier for computer users. Ergonomic keyboards with trackball, is a device that will result in a better lifestyle and work environment. The keyboard is based on the technology and science of ergonomics in order to reduce the paint in hands and other related problems.
A keyboard with trackball is just like any typical keyboard, but with a built in trackball usually placed at the corner with two to three buttons. The trackball can be used to control the computer cursor and the additional buttons alongside the trackball will act as the left and right buttons of the mouse. If you have a keyboard with a trackball, you won’t need to use a mouse.
Initially you might find it hard to control the computer cursor with a trackball. But after repeated usage, you will get the hang of it and become proficient in using it. An ergonomic keyboard with trackball, have a lot of health benefits. People using such keyboards experience no wrist pain or aches while moving the wrist. Often computer users and office goers experience pain in the wrist due to constant typing and wrist movement. The use of a trackball keyboard can reduce these health hazards drastically. With a trackball on the keyboard, one does not have to use the mouse ever again. Without the sliding action, your hands will be rested on the ergonomic keyboard instead of working your wrist repeatedly.
Users who use the mouse frequently such as developer, programmers and typists must use ergonomic keyboards with trackball. If it is a wireless version then it is even better. Very often, we use the mouse incorrectly. With a single swing of the mouse, we end up straining the muscles and nerves of the wrist without even realizing it. Prolonged usage in such circumstances, could lead to long term injury and in some cases, carpel tunnel syndromes. An ergonomic keyboard with trackball can prevent such injuries, by keeping your wrist rested at a comfortable position.
Companies or Organizations must invest in ergonomic products for their employees to prevent them from suffering from such health problems. This will thereby improve the functionality and efficiency of the employees as well. If your employees suffer from too much pain, they are bound to pay less attention to work. Better equipment will result in more concentration and better results.
Discover the difference by trying your hands on an ergonomic keyboard with trackball. Using the trackball, instead of a mouse to navigate your computer screen is a different experience and will keep your wrist in good health. With less or no repetitive sliding actions you can be sure that the muscles and ligaments in your wrist are protected. There are many options of ergonomic keyboards with trackball available in the market these days. Investing in one will definitely benefit you in the long run.
A keyboard with trackball is just like any typical keyboard, but with a built in trackball usually placed at the corner with two to three buttons. The trackball can be used to control the computer cursor and the additional buttons alongside the trackball will act as the left and right buttons of the mouse. If you have a keyboard with a trackball, you won’t need to use a mouse.
Initially you might find it hard to control the computer cursor with a trackball. But after repeated usage, you will get the hang of it and become proficient in using it. An ergonomic keyboard with trackball, have a lot of health benefits. People using such keyboards experience no wrist pain or aches while moving the wrist. Often computer users and office goers experience pain in the wrist due to constant typing and wrist movement. The use of a trackball keyboard can reduce these health hazards drastically. With a trackball on the keyboard, one does not have to use the mouse ever again. Without the sliding action, your hands will be rested on the ergonomic keyboard instead of working your wrist repeatedly.
Users who use the mouse frequently such as developer, programmers and typists must use ergonomic keyboards with trackball. If it is a wireless version then it is even better. Very often, we use the mouse incorrectly. With a single swing of the mouse, we end up straining the muscles and nerves of the wrist without even realizing it. Prolonged usage in such circumstances, could lead to long term injury and in some cases, carpel tunnel syndromes. An ergonomic keyboard with trackball can prevent such injuries, by keeping your wrist rested at a comfortable position.
Companies or Organizations must invest in ergonomic products for their employees to prevent them from suffering from such health problems. This will thereby improve the functionality and efficiency of the employees as well. If your employees suffer from too much pain, they are bound to pay less attention to work. Better equipment will result in more concentration and better results.
Discover the difference by trying your hands on an ergonomic keyboard with trackball. Using the trackball, instead of a mouse to navigate your computer screen is a different experience and will keep your wrist in good health. With less or no repetitive sliding actions you can be sure that the muscles and ligaments in your wrist are protected. There are many options of ergonomic keyboards with trackball available in the market these days. Investing in one will definitely benefit you in the long run.
Ergonomic Mac Keyboards
Published by dipti, on February 17th, 2012, in the categories: Ergonomic keyboard and mouse
Nowadays you can easily find ergonomic Mac keyboards in the market. With prolonged hours on the computer, there is a lot of importance being laid on ergonomics. Many people are switching from the regular keyboards to ergonomic keyboards in order to attain better comfort while working on a computer. The ergonomic keyboards introduced for Mac computers offer better comfort while working. They are based on the technology and science of ergonomics in order to provide maximum computers to Mac users.
Here is a list of ergonomic keyboards for Mac -
Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac
This keyboard is by Microsoft that works well with a Macintosh personal computer. This comfort curve keyboard comes with Mac-specific keys, programmable hot keys, zoom slider, magnifier and high definition laser mouse.
Goldtouch Adjustable Keyboard
The Goldtouch Adjustable keyboard is possibly the best ergonomically designed keyboard for Mac computers. It not only lives up to the stated ergonomic credentials, but is also sturdy and reliable as well. The user can try out the full range of adjustments provided by this keyboard, allowing each to find their own optional positioning depending on his or her tasks and workstation arrangement. The keyboard provides maximum comfort and effective control for the wrists, hands and forearm posture. You can adjust this keyboard either vertically or horizontally. In this way it helps in taking a more natural posture while working on the computer thereby improving comfort and productivity.
Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000
This keyboard is again from Microsoft that has been voted as the best ergonomic keyboard by most people. Mac related features include:
Adesso Bluetooth SlimTouch Mini Keyboard for Mac
The Adesso SlimTouch Wireless Mini Keyboard for Mac is a compact and convenient keyboard for your Mac computer. It comes with a built-in touchpad and Bluetooth wireless technology. The automatic sleep and power mode helps in extending the battery life. The low profile scissor switch keys give this keyboard a fast tangible response. It is quite economic and at the same time stylish.
Perixx Periboard 710 Wireless Super Mini Keyboard with Touchpad
The Perixx Periboard 710 Wireless Super Mini Keyboard with Touchpad is a compact and portable keyboard that allows its users to work in a healthier manner when using a Mac laptop computer. It can be easily transported as you just need to store one small device instead of two. It comes with a two button touchpad to support full mouse capabilities. It supports wireless technology and therefore can be used at a distance as well. This keyboard supports both Windows and Mac OS.
Here is a list of ergonomic keyboards for Mac -
Wireless Laser Desktop for Mac
This keyboard is by Microsoft that works well with a Macintosh personal computer. This comfort curve keyboard comes with Mac-specific keys, programmable hot keys, zoom slider, magnifier and high definition laser mouse.
Goldtouch Adjustable Keyboard
The Goldtouch Adjustable keyboard is possibly the best ergonomically designed keyboard for Mac computers. It not only lives up to the stated ergonomic credentials, but is also sturdy and reliable as well. The user can try out the full range of adjustments provided by this keyboard, allowing each to find their own optional positioning depending on his or her tasks and workstation arrangement. The keyboard provides maximum comfort and effective control for the wrists, hands and forearm posture. You can adjust this keyboard either vertically or horizontally. In this way it helps in taking a more natural posture while working on the computer thereby improving comfort and productivity.
Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000
This keyboard is again from Microsoft that has been voted as the best ergonomic keyboard by most people. Mac related features include:
- Compatible with Mac OS X v10.2x - 10.4x. Expose function will only work on Mac OS X v10.3 or later
- Users of Mac OS X v10.2.x must install IntelliType Pro and IntelliPoint software before connecting the hardware.
- Users of Mac OS X v10.3.x must upgrade to Mac OS X v10.3.9 before connecting hardware OR install IntelliType Pro and IntelliPoint software before connecting the hardware.
Adesso Bluetooth SlimTouch Mini Keyboard for Mac
The Adesso SlimTouch Wireless Mini Keyboard for Mac is a compact and convenient keyboard for your Mac computer. It comes with a built-in touchpad and Bluetooth wireless technology. The automatic sleep and power mode helps in extending the battery life. The low profile scissor switch keys give this keyboard a fast tangible response. It is quite economic and at the same time stylish.
Perixx Periboard 710 Wireless Super Mini Keyboard with Touchpad
The Perixx Periboard 710 Wireless Super Mini Keyboard with Touchpad is a compact and portable keyboard that allows its users to work in a healthier manner when using a Mac laptop computer. It can be easily transported as you just need to store one small device instead of two. It comes with a two button touchpad to support full mouse capabilities. It supports wireless technology and therefore can be used at a distance as well. This keyboard supports both Windows and Mac OS.
3M Renaissance Mouse
Published by dipti, on February 17th, 2012, in the categories: Alternative To Mouse
The Renaissance Mouse is a leaning joystick shaped mouse that has been around for many years. It is also known by the name Dr. Mouse, Vertical mouse, Anir mouse and Doctor Mouse by Animax.
The mouse stands vertically and has a pistol grip that fits in the hand comfortably and it has three buttons for clicking. Two buttons are controlled by the thumb and the other one by the middle three fingers. The stick stands on a flat mouse base similar to the typical mouse.
With the renaissance mouse, your hands can remain relaxed as all the movement comes from the arm leaving the wrist immobile thereby decreasing or eliminating any stress on the wrist. Movement with this mouse is accomplished by sweeping forearm movements rather wrist movements. The mouse also has a rubber trackball which can be used to control the computer cursor. But the trackball doesn’t glide as well as the optical mouse readily available in the market today. Compared to the typical mouse, this mouse takes a while to get accustomed to.
Features of 3M Renaissance Mouse:
• The novel vertical design keeps the arm in a comfortable, more neutral and natural “handshake” position.
• The design makes sure you use the larger muscles to move mouse, reducing risk of pain and discomfort.
• The thumb buttons on the top of the vertical grip can be used for left and right click functions.
• Scrolling is reduced to a single click because of the easy electronic scrolling function.
• Comes in in two sizes: large and small/medium.
• The software included with the device provides the user with an option for daily ergonomic tips.
• It is very easy to install.
• It comes with an USB connector with PS/2 adapter.
• It is compatible with Macintosh, PC and iMac computers with USB ports.
• There is a two year warranty with this device and also a 30-day money-back guarantee.
The thumbs up position while using this kind of mouse, doesn’t feel as simple, direct and accurate when compared to the typical mouse. People who do not use the computer for prolonged periods may not find the Renaissance Mouse very useful. If you are an avid user of the computer for navigation, word processing and web work then, this device is useful and you won’t find it hard to adapt to this device.
The 3M Renaissance Mouse comes in two sizes. The large size is for people with hands measuring about 3.5 to 4 inches transversely the palm of your hand at the base of your fingers (the place where your fingers joins the palm). The Medium size is for people with hands measuring 2.75 to 3.5 inches.
System requirements for 3M Renaissance Mouse:
Macintosh - You do not need any additional software with this. It works with Apple Power Macintosh computer.
iMac/eBook - It is compatible with iMac and eBook computers and works with USB support. It operates using Apple O/S 8.1 or higher versions with USB Upgrades. It does not come with any software support, just plug and play.
The mouse stands vertically and has a pistol grip that fits in the hand comfortably and it has three buttons for clicking. Two buttons are controlled by the thumb and the other one by the middle three fingers. The stick stands on a flat mouse base similar to the typical mouse.
With the renaissance mouse, your hands can remain relaxed as all the movement comes from the arm leaving the wrist immobile thereby decreasing or eliminating any stress on the wrist. Movement with this mouse is accomplished by sweeping forearm movements rather wrist movements. The mouse also has a rubber trackball which can be used to control the computer cursor. But the trackball doesn’t glide as well as the optical mouse readily available in the market today. Compared to the typical mouse, this mouse takes a while to get accustomed to.
Features of 3M Renaissance Mouse:
• The novel vertical design keeps the arm in a comfortable, more neutral and natural “handshake” position.
• The design makes sure you use the larger muscles to move mouse, reducing risk of pain and discomfort.
• The thumb buttons on the top of the vertical grip can be used for left and right click functions.
• Scrolling is reduced to a single click because of the easy electronic scrolling function.
• Comes in in two sizes: large and small/medium.
• The software included with the device provides the user with an option for daily ergonomic tips.
• It is very easy to install.
• It comes with an USB connector with PS/2 adapter.
• It is compatible with Macintosh, PC and iMac computers with USB ports.
• There is a two year warranty with this device and also a 30-day money-back guarantee.
The thumbs up position while using this kind of mouse, doesn’t feel as simple, direct and accurate when compared to the typical mouse. People who do not use the computer for prolonged periods may not find the Renaissance Mouse very useful. If you are an avid user of the computer for navigation, word processing and web work then, this device is useful and you won’t find it hard to adapt to this device.
The 3M Renaissance Mouse comes in two sizes. The large size is for people with hands measuring about 3.5 to 4 inches transversely the palm of your hand at the base of your fingers (the place where your fingers joins the palm). The Medium size is for people with hands measuring 2.75 to 3.5 inches.
System requirements for 3M Renaissance Mouse:
Macintosh - You do not need any additional software with this. It works with Apple Power Macintosh computer.
iMac/eBook - It is compatible with iMac and eBook computers and works with USB support. It operates using Apple O/S 8.1 or higher versions with USB Upgrades. It does not come with any software support, just plug and play.
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