Path: utzoo!utgpu!news-server.csri.toronto.edu!rpi!zaphod.mps.ohio-state.edu!ceres.physics.uiowa.edu!news.iastate.edu!sharkey!caen!etsu!cmi.com!dave Newsgroups: comp.sys.mac.hardware Subject: Re: INFO Wanted on Track-ball mice substitutes Message-ID: <9828@etsu.CMI.COM> From: dave@cmi.com (David Halonen) Date: 11 Apr 91 12:13:27 GMT Sender: news@etsu.CMI.COM References: <1991Apr8.005905.12711@starnet.uucp> <1991Apr9.204840.22320@cs.utk.edu> Organization: Center for Machine Intelligence, EDS Corp. Lines: 24 I've used a Wacom pressure sensitive tablet for a month or so, and have gone back to the mouse. Most of my work is normal pointing, clicking, dragging, and keyboard activity. A pen must be picked up and put down after each use, whereas the mouse stays in its place (both the hardware and the cursor.) The pen must be placed somewhere after each use (Wacom supplies a convenient pen stand to park it in.) I like to be able to just let go of the device. My other complaint is that pushing (downward) on the pen isn't that great of a method for clicking. This device generated many erroneous clicks, that gets a little tiring. I have seen good pen/tablet combinations used by professional CAD users. Two striking conveniences: A cord that attaches to the pen, such that the pen can be suspended above the tablet. You can just let go. Usually a little rubber band is included to provide the needed flexibility. The other advantage these devices had was a button on the side of the pen for clicking - a very distinct and positive action. Anyway, I'm back to the mouse (I don't like trackballs either - jeez is this guy picky!) Your mileage may vary. David Halonen, Center for Machine Intelligence, Electronic Data Systems Ann Arbor, MI (313) 995-0900 AppleLink: N0548 Internet: dave@cmi.com