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Abstract

Twelve subjects used fixed-angle split keyboards with a conventional mouse, an integrated touchpad, or an integrated MultiTouch surface. Three tasks were tested in each condition: data entry, text editing and cursor positioning. Wrist posture, performance (speed, errors) and subjective ratings were recorded. Results showed that mouse use was fastest for data entry, text editing tasks, and cursor positioning. MultiTouch was faster than the touchpad for cursor positioning, but slower for data entry and text editing. The mouse was rated as easiest to use. MultiTouch and the mouse were rated as more comfortable than the touchpad. There was marginally less wrist extension with use of the MultiTouch or the mouse than with use of the touchpad. Familiarity with keyboard and mouse use may have played a substantial role in the findings.

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Comparison of Mouse,Touchpad and Multitouch Input Technologies

Abstract

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