Check this out:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7772376.stm
Dr Engelbart introduced the first ever computer mouse on December 9th 1968 while he was demonstrating different ways of working with computers! Its funny to see something that was just created 40 years ago and now today in 2009 not used that much anymore, due to laptops.
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The video is great, getting to see Douglas introduce the first mouse and then hearing him talk about his invention 36 years later. Interesting how they just started calling it a mouse with no thought to marketing or corporate/social concerns and the name stuck. He seems to make it sound so simple. He realized there was a need for better interactivity in the use of computers. The mouse/tracking device has become the foundation for the graphic user interfaces used today in computers. The mouse / GUI combo has help to make computers easier to use and added to their acceptance by society. As for the art of the mouse, not much there just a simple moving box. Interesting to see the cord coming out the back of the mouse (instead of the top of mice today or even no wires with today's wireless mice).
ReplyDeleteI can remember the first time I used a mouse with a Mac SE/20, it took me some time to get use to moving around the system with it. Up until then it has all been keyboard commands and mapping functions to F-keys.
It's nice to know that someone besides Bill Gates is responsible for the advancement of computer technology. The mouse advanced the use of computers by providing people with an easier way to tell it what you want to do. The computer was much more dependant on the user to give directions on what and how to perform. A pretty slow and tedious process compared to today. Using the mouse reminds me of driving. At first it feels foreign and its awkward to coodinate thoughts, speed and steering. After awhile the flow of thoughts just become action you just drive. . I still don't like when i have to switch from mouse to keyboard it interupts the flow . I saw the video on the same website about the touch screen replacing the mouse but there is still a disconnect between typing and navigating. I wish in the future they could make a device that will allow you to navigate on the computer with your eyes and select with your keyboard so you don't have to remove your hands from one device to another.
ReplyDeleteI think the mouse is one step closer to merging people with computers. My kids aquired the ability to use computer technology easily. Their skills with the mouse are phenonomal. They click and navigate exceedingly fast and efficient ; it’s become second nature for their generation. To them it’s second to breathing.
You know Christine, with how technology has developed through out these years, we might just have this "control with your eyes, choose with your mouse" thing.. very funny idea, but it could be possible! :)
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