mouse, 3D

In computing, an input device used to control a pointer on a computer screen. A conventional mouse works for 2-dimensional applications, but for 3-dimensional (3D) applications this pointing device with 6 degrees of freedom is becoming increasingly common. Most 3D mice are constructed with some graspable object, usually a ball, attached to a stationary base. Small movements are applied to the ball in various directions: up/down, side-to-side, twisting, and pitching. These movements are fed back to the computer, where they are translated to move an object around a 3D space on the screen.

Some of the more advanced virtual reality games for computers are able to be operated by 3D mice.