Happ Trackball advice

[ackbar]

Hi, I'm planning to build my first cabinet, and I decided to include a trackball.  I'd like some advice on this one:

http://www.happcontrols.com/trackballs/565600xx.htm

It looks like a good fit for me, since it will be very simple to install.  The USB interface and the drop-in replacement of a mouse are big plusses for me.  However, the $144 price tag seems pretty high.  Is this trackball a good buy?  The easy installation would be good, but I am not discouraged by a steeper learning curve if I can get a cheaper trackball that would give me the same results.

Also, about the size- I noticed that the sizes range from 1.5 to 4.5 inches.  I checked this site's documentation, but size isn't mentioned.  After having searched the forums, it looks like the preferred size is a 3 inch ball, and this one is 2.25- will that make a huge difference in the end?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

[ripzone]

You can buy a 3" Trackball (http://www.happcontrols.com/trackballs/560100xx.htm)
and then hack a mouse or buy an Opti-Pac. With the trackball and mouse hack it will cost less than $100!

[ackbar]

Thanks for the info- I just came across the I-PAC and Opti-PAC a few minutes ago, and it's looking like this is the solution for me.

I'm using a Mac for this, and the Happ interface board doesn't claim to support Macs (the trackball controller does, though).  While I think I could get it to work, I'm kind of wary about spending that much if it doesn't.  

The I/Opti-PACs seem to be the optimal solution.

[Auntie MAME]

A 2.25" is like the type your see w/Centipede or Missle Command.  The 3" is like a Golden Tee trackball.  I'd go for the Opti-PAC and a Happ trackball and save myself a few bucks over the happ USB version.  You may also need a mounting plate depending on how you build your CP.

[ackbar]

Thanks for the info about the sizes- I will be primarily using the trackball as an alternate mouse and for games other than Golden Tee.  Is the 3" ball too bulky for games other than golf?

I'm definitely going with the Ultimarc products for controllers.  Sorry for going off-topic, but the I-PAC will support Happ's buttons and joysticks, correct?  Ultimarc sells some on their site, but it seems like Happ's joysticks are higher quality, and their buttons are cheaper.

[djsting]

I have the 3" version of the Happs you posted the link to and it's only a few bucks more.  I have to say, it is the easiest thing to set up...just plug in the USB and you're done!!  Works like a charm.  

[rampy]

Ackbar,

Welcome to BYOAC...  but be wary... It's a trap!
=P

if your cost consciense may I recommend imperial/betson's
trackballs...  They have a ps/2 version (do mac's have that plug??!)which i have no idea if is mac compatible.

I bought a refurbished betson/imperial for 29 bucks from them (without the ps/2 interface) and hacked an old mouse I had laying around as an interface.

ditto whoever said, remember to get a mounting plate.

3" vs. 2 1/4" is matter of preference.  Golden Tee'ers MUST have a 3"... other people like the 2 1/4" cuz you can replace it with a pool ball (which looks cool and rolls better with the heavier ball)

*Shrug*  Good luck and avoid traps.

rampy

[ackbar]

Haha rampy, yeah I know it's a trap... but building an arcade seems like a pretty fun time trap