Question about a scroll wheel peripheral.
Question about a scroll wheel peripheral.
I was recently informed that I developed early-stage arthritis in my index finger, which is quite surprising given my age. The explanation suggested it might be linked to excessive use of the computer mouse, influenced by both my hobbies and my work as a software developer. Over the years, I've relied on a vertical mouse to protect against long-term issues like carpal tunnel syndrome.
I believe most of the damage stems from using a scrollwheel rather than the actual mouse clicks, since I often scroll through lines of code. Instead of purchasing a new mouse with a scrollwheel positioned at the thumb—something I haven’t found suitable—I considered an alternative: a separate scrollwheel that could be operated with my left hand. I recall from college that some gaming keyboards featured a 2-inch wide scrollwheel in the top-left corner for volume control, which might suit my needs.
Based on what I found online, it appears there aren’t many other devices that combine a scrollwheel with a keyboard and volume wheel in this way. Hardware solutions that simply bind these components together without software installation seem to be the only option I’m aware of. I think I could likely build it myself using an old mouse, just by disconnecting the laser and buttons, but I’d prefer a ready-made piece if possible.
Maybe a track ball would work; there are many available on amazon.
According to my understanding, the trackball mice function by utilizing the trackball as an alternative for moving the mouse. Although I haven't personally observed one in use, it seems possible to operate it similarly to a regular mouse, with the trackball solely managing scrolling functions.
Yeah, it's been a few decades since I last used a trackball, so my memory's unclear and I can't locate my portable keyboard with the scroll wheel. It depends on the software—if you click on code pages and scroll down with the mouse, the trackball would work similarly. But perhaps you're right; using a track pad might be better, allowing use with other fingers or hands. Or maybe something like the joysticks available on Amazon could work too.
The trackball operates by using the ball to control mouse movements. It typically includes a scrollwheel, much like a standard mouse. For your concern, what would be a second regular mouse positioned under the left hand for scrolling? 2 mice...right hand handles movement and clicks, left hand manages scrolling. Or, you could use just one in the left hand. Allow your right hand to rest for a few weeks or months.
Wow, I totally forgot that they sell external trackpads for desktops. You're right, that sounds like almost exactly what I'm looking for.
Yeah, that is essentially what I was planning to do if there was not better purpose-built solution. I was just going to tape over the laser on the left mouse so that it doesn't move the cursor.
This is an interesting option. I've never used a trackball before, but it's something work looking at for sure.
Other input options include foot pedals and joysticks that can be set up with scroll functions.
Even though I'm unsure about using that scrolling feature, I've been researching foot pedals for games that need frequent trigger inputs on controllers.
Yes, especially since the scroll rings can be controlled not just with a thumb but also by the edge of a hand (like a karate chop pinky side) with remarkable accuracy due to their size. Moreover, using a completely different kind of input device such as a trackball means your hand fatigue becomes noticeable, prompting you to shift to other muscle groups more effectively than typical ergonomic options like a vertical mouse—and even the opposite hand would need adjustment, since vertical mice aren’t ambidextrous. But what you expressly desire was introduced last year in the $27 Cooyoo Crazy Small Wheel, built to be operated by feet and featuring only scroll and middle-click features. Production runs are quite limited, it doesn’t include a Type-C to Type-A USB cable so you’d need to provide your own, and you’d likely have to find a way to attach or secure it to the floor. Nevertheless, a commercial product offers far greater ease than attempting a DIY modification of a mouse scroll wheel into a desk or keyboard component or floor mount, allowing you to create your own scroll dial or trackball where you simply twist the ball.