Formerly that would be the case as it was the first type of pointing device until the introduction of the computer mouse (which had a smaller trackball on the bottom), then later optical and infrared laser mice.
Mouse
Computer mouse or a pointing device. Is that what you mean?
a mouse
Douglas engelbart invented the computer mouse/pointing device.
Pointing device (device class including trackpoints and trackballs).
a computer mouse
The most common pointing device used by people around the world is a mouse.The new most popular is the touch screen and second is the track pad on your laptop. Then the stylus is the next device which is used by people. These are all few popular and most used pointing devices.
Most personal computer and laptop owners use a computer pointing device when operating their machines. These devices make it easy to point, click or drag objects on the screen. When shopping for a pointing device, it’s always good to consider what it is that you want. There are two basic types of pointing devices available on the market today. The two basic types, connected or laser, have many different products to choose from as well. A connected pointing device, or mouse, plugs directly into your computer. Although this device performs all of the functions your computer needs, it is limited in movement. Connected pointing devices must be used within the vicinity. This is typically in close proximity of your personal computer. While wireless, laser pointing devices allow for much more flexibility in use. Their flexibility, does not limit their functionality at all. Wireless pointing devices are operated through laser power. These products have a wider range of movement for the computer user. So, you don’t have to be in one location only in order to operate it. Wireless pointing devices are sometimes sold along with compatible keyboards. These products, when used together, can be operated several feet away from one’s computer screen. This allows for much more functionality in use and has become more and more popular. It is also good to consider the design of your pointing device. Both, the connected and laser versions offer ergonomically correct choices for users. This is especially important for those who suffer from hand or wrist ailments. Fortunately, there are a lot of choices out there for interested shoppers. One addition to many pointing devices these days is the convenience of a scroll mechanism. These scroll buttons are generally in the top center of the device, and allow one to easily scroll down the screen. Looking for devices with this option is a good choice for operation. Take the time to give many products your attention, when looking for the best pointing device for you. It is also a good idea to read product descriptions to see if they match your specific needs.
Track ball Track pad Integrated Pointing Device
One of the most common components of a GUI on the personal computer is a pointer: a graphical image on a screen that indicates the location of a pointing device, and can be used to select and move objects or commands on the screen.
The variants of computer mouse are: Track pads Trackballs and pointer Integrated Pointing Device
The first one that I know of was the SAGE computer's light gun in the middle 1950s.
A pointing device is used to refer to devices that are used to manipulate a virtual space. A computer mouse would be considered a pointing device. Touch surfaces are not considered pointing devices because they are manipulated directly by the user's inputs without the need for a third party object.