Precise Positioning on Computer Monitors: Comparison of Mouse and Scroll Wheel in One Dimension

Abstract

Precisely positioning graphical objects is an essential task for graphic designers. This paper compares precise positioning using a physically discrete device, indented scroll wheels, with positioning using a continuous device, standard mouse movements. The device (scroll wheel or mouse), positioned object height, positioning tolerance and initial object-target separation are varied while observing the error frequency, movement times and time to confirm that the object is accurately positioned. Positioning tolerance was varied from a single permissible position to 7 possible positions. Error frequency and confirmation time were less using the scroll wheel, while movement times were less using the mouse. Appropriate measures for the difficulty of precise positioning are discussed.

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