Abstract: A control unit disposed in a remote-control pointing device for providing a control and pointing function. The control unit comprises a stationary element, a movable control element with a reflective surface disposed proximate to the stationary element, at least one optical sensor fixedly disposed in close proximity to the movable control element, and at least one pressure sensor. When the optical sensor is activated by movement of the movable control element and when the movable control element is put into pressure contact with the pressure sensor, location and pressure contact data, respectively, are collected by the control unit enabling control and pointing functions associated with the pointing device without the need for an external, stationary reference surface.