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Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: DvMxDv on August 02, 2004, 04:24:28 pm

Title: Trackball mouse conversion question
Post by: DvMxDv on August 02, 2004, 04:24:28 pm

Hi All,

I started playing MAME in about 6 or 7 years ago, and just recently started playing again.  This time around, I want to build a small, budget cabinet.  I'm using an old PC, the keyboard hack, a used monitor, etc...  As you can see, very low budget.  

My question is this.  I have managed to aquire a 2.5" trackball mouse (Kingsington, I believe) for the best price; free.  The problem is that the mouse is for a Mac.  Is there a way to convert this mouse to PS/2 while I'm hacking it apart and soldering buttons, etc, for the control panel?  Thanks much for any help you can provide!

Dave

Title: Re:Trackball mouse conversion question
Post by: DvMxDv on August 03, 2004, 11:30:20 am

Well, after doing some research, it looks like there is no easy way to convert a trackball designed for Apple's ADB to a PS/2 connection.  I figure I should be able to gut the trackball and a PS/2 mouse and connect the emmitters from the trackball's board to the emmitter contacts on the PS/2 board.  I think that should work.  Any comments?

Short of that, I don't suppose anyone has a Crayola Kidsball or CompUSA crystal trackball sitting around collecting dust that they'd be willing to let go of cheap? ;D  

Thanks.

Dave

Title: Re:Trackball mouse conversion question
Post by: MiKman on August 03, 2004, 11:40:34 am

watch ebay, you can get some dirt cheap, real arcade trackballs.  they may need some cleaning up and lubrication and they give you a real arcade feel... in fact here is a 3" one ending in six hours and currently only $10.00 US funds  of course they want $8.00 to ship it ouch!  ;D  

http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=13718&item=6110847429&rd=1