A version of the fully ergonomic
E-Type MALTRON keyboard
fitted with an integrated trackball in the central
palm rest.
Trackball and finger switch positions
MICE & TRACKBALLS
A common source of trouble for intensive
computer users is the mouse used to control the cursor.
This has become more serious through the development of
software needing its frequent or almost continuous use.
Holding
a mouse usually requires gripping between thumb and
little finger to move it and then more strongly to hold
it in place while the index finger operates the action
button. From these actions pains in hand, arm and
shoulder can develop.
Trackballs,
which are inverted mice, are also available in different
sizes and mountings, but still need holding and operating
by one hand.
All
need appreciable hand and arm movement to reach the
operating position and they occupy a fair amount of
additional desk space.
To overcome this
problem we have fitted a trackball in the palm rest area
of the central number pad. In this position the ball may
be easily moved by the thumb with the fingers cupped and
the hand resting over the key thumb group. The top of the
ball is slightly below the palm rest surface so that it
does not interfere with normal keyboard use.
The
central location of the trackball enables either thumb to
be used with the wrist kept straight and the hand tilted
outwards in a comfortable position.
Action Buttons for the trackball are positioned so that
they are operated by the other hand. The placing of the
buttons allows the hand to rest in a relaxed state but
ready for use. This arrangement ensures that the accurate
and careful positioning of the ball is not disturbed when
operating an action button.
The stress relieving design of MALTRON
keyboards has already enabled hundreds of RSI or CTS
(Repetitive Strain Injury or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)
sufferers to return to work with career prospects
recovered. The new combination in the MALTRON Trackball
Keyboard can be a significant step in overcoming problems
from mice as well.
Paper and Computer based keyboard training courses are
available.
