Abstract: An operation member is provided with a planar input device, and a detachable display sheet is overlaid on the surface of the planar input device. There are two types of display sheets, in which input items are different. Cutouts are formed at the respective peripheral edge portions thereof, and a determination device for detecting these cutouts is provided. Wireless communication is performed between the operation member and a host, and the display sheet is replaced according to the function performed by the host.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a coordinates input apparatus whereby various operations on a screen can be carried out where practicable with one finger, and the number of operations reduced, thus giving a marked improvement in user operability. The coordinates input apparatus of the invention therefore comprises a detection section and an operating section. The detection section is provided with an operating surface for operation by a coordinates pointer such as a finger, and detects the operating conditions on the operating surface caused by the coordinates pointer. The operating section executes screen operations corresponding to the operating condition detected by the detection section, and in addition detects tapping of the coordinates pointer on the operating surface within a predetermined region, and carries out previously determined processing.

Abstract: A control ball assembly for a coordinate input device including a pair of orthogonal rotatable shafts contacting a control ball and which rotate in response to a rotation of the control ball. A spring having two arms, each arm connected to one end of one of the pair of shafts, presses the rotatable shafts inward against the control ball with an equal biasing force. A support member is provided to support the spring.