Photo shows IBM newly-developed mouse adapter.

IBM's newly-developed mouse adapter. (IBM)

Hand-tremor sufferers are offered a new way to better use computers, as IBM on Monday said it has developed a mouse adapter that can help people suffering from hand tremors to eliminate excessive cursor movements, which often prevents the elderly and others from using a computer.

    BEIJING, Mar. 16 -- Hand-tremor sufferers are offered a new way to better use computers, as IBM on Monday said it has developed a mouse adapter that can help people suffering from hand tremors to eliminate excessive cursor movements, which often prevents the elderly and others from using a computer.

    The mouse adapter plugs between a mouse and computer, and filters signals to remove erratic movements such as those experienced by people with Parkinson's Disease or hereditary disorders such as Essential Tremor.

    The device, which is designed to work with any computer and operating system, does not require additional software and can be switched on or off. It also can be adjusted to the severity of the tremors, and can filter out unintended multiple clicking on the mouse caused by a shaking finger.

    In future, the adapter is likely to become smaller and could be integrated with mice. A software-only version may also appear.

    After deeming the device non-commercial, IBM has licensed its mouse adapter to Montrose Secam Ltd., a small British electronics company that's selling the device for less than $100 through its website.

    There are more than 750 million people with disabilities worldwide, with 54 million of them living in the United States, according to IBM, which sees the market as a significant business opportunity. IBM believes accessible-computing technologies will become mainstream among business customers.

    According to Nielsen/NetRatings, senior citizens age 65 and older were the fastest growing age group online in 2003, increasing 25 percent year over year to 9.6 million.

    Parkinson's is the disease most commonly associated with tremors, but other conditions, such as essential tremors, are more common, the IETF said. Essential tremor is an inherited condition that can affect people throughout their lives.

(Agencies)