Scrollwiel

Scrollwiel is a Dutch word that translates to "scroll wheel" in English. It refers to a common input device found on computer mice and other pointing devices. The scroll wheel is typically located between the left and right mouse buttons and is designed to facilitate scrolling through documents, web pages, and other content.

The primary function of a scroll wheel is to move the viewable area of a display either up or down. By rotating the wheel forward, the user can scroll down, and by rotating it backward, they can scroll up. Many scroll wheels also have a clickable function, acting as a third button that can be used for various purposes, such as opening links in a new tab or closing windows.

In addition to vertical scrolling, some scroll wheels offer horizontal scrolling capabilities. This is often achieved by tilting the wheel left or right, allowing users to navigate wide spreadsheets or images without needing to use a separate scrollbar. The tactile feedback from the scroll wheel, often a series of distinct clicks or steps, helps users control the scrolling speed and precision.

The scroll wheel has become an indispensable component of modern computing, significantly improving user efficiency and comfort when interacting with digital content. Its widespread adoption has made it a standard feature on most mice and trackpads.