getmouse - Linux

Overview

getmouse is a command-line tool that provides detailed information about the mouse input device connected to the system. It gathers data on its properties, configuration, and current status.

Syntax

getmouse [options]

Options/Flags

  • -d, –device DEVICE: Specify a specific mouse device to retrieve information for. Default: /dev/input/mouse0.
  • -v, –verbose: Enable verbose output, displaying additional details about the device and its settings.
  • -h, –help: Display this help message and exit.
  • -V, –version: Display version information and exit.

Examples

Get basic mouse information:

$ getmouse

Get verbose output for a specific device:

$ getmouse -v -d /dev/input/mouse1

Retrieve mouse coordinates and button status in a loop:

while getmouse -d /dev/input/mouse0; do :; done

Common Issues

Device not found:

  • Ensure that the mouse device is properly connected and detected by the system.
  • Verify that you have proper permissions to access the device file or specify the correct device name using the -d option.

Unexpected behavior:

  • Check if other applications or scripts are interfering with mouse input.
  • Reset the mouse settings using the appropriate system tools or device drivers.

Integration

Combine with xinput:

Getmouse can be used in conjunction with xinput to fine-tune mouse settings:

xinput --list-props "Logitech MX Master 3" | getmouse -

Integrate with scripts:

Capture mouse events and process them in a script:

#!/bin/bash
while getmouse -d /dev/input/mouse1 | grep -q button; do
  # Perform actions based on button press
done

Related Commands

  • xinput: Configure and manage input devices.
  • evtest: Test and monitor input device events.