Quality Computer Consulting Services at Affordable Rates

relative pointing device n. A cursor-control device, such as a mouse or a trackball, in which the movement of an on-screen cursor is linked to the movement of the device but not to the position of the device. For example, if a user picks up a mouse and puts it down in a different location on a desk, the position of the on-screen cursor does not change because no movement (rolling) is detected. When the user rolls the mouse again, the cursor moves to reflect the mouse movement against the surface of the desk. Relative pointing devices differ from absolute pointing devices, such as graphics tablets, in which the device's location within a defined area is always associated with a predefined on-screen position. See also relative coordinates, relative movement. Compare absolute pointing device.

-Microsoft Computer Dictionary, 3rd ed.