The use of ballistic movement as an additional method to assess performance of computer mice

This study investigates an additional method for independently evaluating performance of speed and accuracy of computer mice, based on five parameters of the initial submovement when aiming at a target. This first submovement is known to be carried out in a ballistic manner and hence the Fitts-type aiming movement may be studied by means of the established relationships for ballistic movement. To test the ballistic movement method, eight participants used four different computer mice to execute ballistic movements and Fitts-type aiming movements. Regression tests showed that the Fitts movement time was well correlated with the time and stopping-variable error of ballistic movement, implying that measuring ballistic movement parameters can predict the performance of Fitts-type aiming movements. More importantly, the use of ballistic movement method allows independent assessments of the speed and accuracy, providing additional information for input devices assessment and designs. The study illustrates the close correspondence between input device evaluation using the proposed ballistic movement method and Fitts' law. The ballistic movement method allows independent measures of speed and four types of accuracy, which should benefit input devices assessment and designs. •Ballistic movement method tests the first submovement of the Fitts-type task.•Evaluations using Fitts' law and the ballistic movement method are highly related.•Ballistic movement method allows separate measures of movement speed and accuracy.•Ballistic movement method gives an additional way to assess input devices.