Build in trackball

[joegill85]

I have Parkinson's disease and I have tried unsuccessfully to use a game joystick as a mouse I:could not configure the software available in Linux to work to my satisfaction.

During some recent research on the Internet I came across a reasonably priced 3 inch arcade trackball that I can build into either the desktop or make a simple box to house it and install it like a keyboard tray. It has four buttons and should, from the information I received act just like a normal USB trackball or mouse.

I intend to set it up so that one hand controls the mouse and the other hand controls the buttons.

I will add more information as I progress.

If anyone would like information about the trackball please let me know

Joe

[arky]

I have a Trackman Marble mice, it works out of the box expect the page up and page down keys.

Won't you think it would better get one of these.
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/mice_pointers/trackballs/devices/4680&cl=us,en

[Grenage]

We purchased one of those Marbles about 5-6 years ago for an employee, and it's performed flawlessly since. I don't like trackballs, but if I had to use one, I could live with a marble.

[joegill85]

Thanks for the suggestion, I could buy a standard trackball but because of tremor, I used to us the trackball I had with two hands one controlling the ball other the buttons.

By constructing a two handed trackball I can adjust the button layout, and trying different arrangements of ball and button find the most suitable arrangement for me. I will over time add controls to if possible adjust the sensitivity and speed, as I work. I don't know of any other way to achieve what I need, need being the operative word, without having something constructed at not inconsiderable cost.

I hope that what I want to achieve is possible and that the cost is not excessive , it may also give others like myself who are still capable of doing simple diy tasks to try something similar, and if it is a success that it will give encouragement to anyone else who has difficulty using a mouse.

Joe

[Grenage]

Well we can only wish you the best of luck; please post back and let us know how you got on, preferably with a guide and pics!

[arky]

Kudos Joe, Keep us posted

[joegill85]

Thanks for the suggestion, I could buy a standard trackball but because of tremor, I used to us the trackball I had with two hands one controlling the ball other the buttons.

By constructing a two handed trackball I can adjust the button layout, and trying different arrangements of ball and button find the most suitable arrangement for me. I will over time add controls to if possible adjust the sensitivity and speed, as I work. I don't know of any other way to achieve what I need, need being the operative word, without having something constructed at not inconsiderable cost.

I hope that what I want to achieve is possible and that the cost is not excessive , it may also give others like myself who are still capable of doing simple diy tasks to try something similar, and if it is a success that it will give encouragement to anyone else who has difficulty using a mouse.

Joe
The trackball arrived today I have a temporary set up which works a treat. The buttons are light and east to use. the trackball is not sensitive I have got it at maximum sensitivity but I need it to move a bit faster any suggestions.

I need also to map the other two buttons I will try imwheel but may need some help.

Keep you posted Joe

[joegill85]

Fixed the sensitivity but only detecting 3 of the 4 buttons using btnx. I have sent a message to the manufacturer to see if they can help.

I will be installing the trackball into the desktop hopefully before the weekend. Once I am happy with the setup I will write a how to and post it.

Joe

[joegill85]

Hi

The trackball and buttons have now been installed into the desk and are very easy to use. I have more control of the trackball which is making computer tasks much easier than in the past. The button layout fits easily under my left hand and is making web browsing, program selection and use quicker and more efficient.

I am going to make some small adjustments to the setup ad then do a full write up of the tasks required and also the mistakes I made.

I will summarize my findings and how the system works for me, and if anyone else would like to try a similar setup give what ever help I can.

Joe

[arky]

Great Try to publish some pictures of your setup.

[joegill85]

Hi arky

Image as requested. I will add others as I finish the installation. You can see the way I use the trackball, a very simple layout that suits me, it may not be practical for others but does show what can be done.

I will be getting a compact keyboard with separate number pad, my current keyboard is much to long and I have to move it when I am using the the trackball for graphic work.

As I use the trackball I am finding that the level of tremor lowers and the amount of control improves, I suppose because I am more comfortable and relaxed. My posture has improved as well, this has reduced the level of fatigue and so I can use the computer for longer.

Closing for now, thanks for the encouragement.


Joe

[arky]

Thank you, Joe. Please let me know when you are done, I would like to share your story on my blog.