Quick trackball question, noobish!

[Mattiekrome]

I've ordered all of the componenets that I am going to use to build my CP, however I am now having second thoughts of adding a trackball to the mix as well.  I have never been interested in adding a trackball to the CP layout, but after I saw how much $ I am going to be dumping into a project like this, I might change my mind and do it all the first time.  The question is (and I did a search, but from the 20+ pages of results, I didn't get an answer), how will this interface with my CP?  Will I have to purchase another "IPAC'ish" board to hook this thing up, or does it just have a USB plug on it that plugs into the PC?  Once installed, does it act like a real trackball/mouse for a PC?  If so I should be able to play Arkanoid (and other "spinners") with it right?

[genesim]

Buy one that uses a USB/PS/2 connector and you don't need an IPAC at all.  The encoder board will come with it.   HAPPS has them.

Essential if you ask me.  Recognizes just like a mouse.

[diverdown]

yep, essential - not for mame but for navigating around windows.

In mame it can be used for trackball games and also for spinner games like arkanoid.


mine was from groovygamegear (iceT trackball) and it came with it's own usb encoder board screwed onto it...... makes it be recognised as a mouse plug and play


if u buy one get a mounting plate so u can flush mount it

[Mattiekrome]

yep, essential - not for mame but for navigating around windows.

Forgot to mention, its not going in a cab, but a stand alone CP that I am going to plug into my PC via USB port.  After giving it more thought, I think I'll pass for the time being.  When I build my "real cab", you can bet I'll be putting one of those GGG electric ice trackballs in there.  Those things are sweet. 

Anyways, thanks for the answers to my question