Pointing device provided with two types of input means for a computer system

Abstract

A pointing device mounted in a portable computer having a system unit for data processing, wherein the pointing device comprises a housing detachably attached to the portable computer, and a first and second input means formed integrally with the housing, wherein the first input means is used for data input by making wireless data communication with the system unit when the housing is detached from the portable computer, and the second input means is directly connected with the system unit through a cable for data input when the housing is attached directly to the portable computer. Preferably, the housing may be detachably mounted in a seat provided in the system unit of the portable computer. The first and second input means are respectively a ball type mouse and a touch pad. Thus, the pointing device may be selectively used as a ball type mouse when detached from the system unit or as a touch pad when attached to the system unit. Used as the ball type mouse, the pointing device transfers the pointing data to the system unit by means of a radio transmitter. Used as the touch pad, the pointing device transfers the pointing data to the system unit by means of cable connection.