Shortly after computers were released in the 1940s, a device that changed computers forever was released. The trackball came into existence in 1952 as a secret military operation of the Canadian Navy. Because it was not under patent, a similar device came out in the early 60s; this was the first official mouse.

The first mouse was not nearly as advanced and user friendly as the devices we use today. The original model was a square box with two disk wheels, one in the front and the second perpendicular to it, that corresponded to buttons on the top of the device. This particular model led to the development of the telegraph which then led to the fax machine.

Today we use a similar device to control our computer. However, instead of a wheel system, we have a track ball that rotates and sensors that adjust the movement of the cursor depending on the location of the track ball. More advanced devices use a system of laser technology to relate the same motion. Some of these devices are even wirelessly controlled, so the device is not only using laser technology, but it also uses radio wave technology.

With modern technology the mouse has become even more advanced. The mouse is now fitted to the hand for comfort and practical use, and some even include a cushion to rest the wrist while using the computer. In addition to a track ball, laser technology, and radio wave technology, the mouse now has a wheel on top of the mouse which is used to scroll through documents and move pages up and down. This is also used by people who play games to control where the characters are placed during game play. The mouse is the second most popular input device used on modern computers, which makes it a universal device.