Optical Tracking

What is Optical Tracking?

Optical tracking is a method used in computer mice to detect and record the movement of the device across a surface.

This technology uses a tiny camera to capture images of the surface beneath the mouse, which are then analyzed by the computer to calculate the movement of the cursor on the screen. Optical tracking has largely replaced the older mechanical tracking method, which used a rubber ball to detect movement. Optical mice are generally more accurate and require less maintenance than mechanical ones, and they can work on a wider variety of surfaces. The most common type of optical tracking uses an LED light to illuminate the surface beneath the mouse, while a camera captures images of the surface. Some mice use more advanced tracking methods, such as laser tracking or blue LED tracking, to achieve even greater accuracy and precision