a controller for controlling a computer display cursor includes an arena having a predefined optical grid . a puck handle is configured to move a puck on the optical grid and to reflect optical signals to the grid regarding the position of the puck on optical grid . the optical grid defines the resolution of the puck movements and positions that can be ascertained . gratings formed by undulations in transparent walls provide an optical puck position signal in response to the puck position . a processor is coupled to the optical grid and is configured to receive the puck position signal and to generate a cursor position signal . to generate the cursor position signal , the processor may perform a conversion function based on predetermined criteria . the processor transmits the cursor position signal to a computer having a predefined display size , which displays the cursor at a respective position . moreover , the processor may maintain puck movement parameters including puck velocity to generate a continuous movement signal when the puck is moved into an edge position . the processor may also may identify if the puck is positioned in a number of macro locations that are associated with user - selectable tasks .