Abstract: A computer input device includes a non-conductive substrate with a first conductive pattern formed by a plurality of first conductive elements positioned on the substrate surface circumferentially around a circle. A second conductive pattern formed by a plurality of second conductive elements, each positioned on the surface between two first conductive elements. A contact member has a conductive surface which when manually operated by a user selectively connects one or more of the first conductive elements to one or more of the second conductive elements. The ones of the second conductive elements so connected can be detected to produce a signal indicating an angular direction in which a cursor on a computer screen.