--- Tony Duell <ard_at_p850ug1.demon.co.uk> wrote:
> > The advantage of the ancient mice is that the quadrature encoder is
> > mechanical, not optical, and a discrete component. Much easier to
> > mount than a toothed plastic wheel molded onto a plastic shaft.
>
> The disadvantage is that the mechanical encoders have a much shorter life
> (the contacts wear out).
True.
> Personally, if I was going to do a mod like this, I'd probably start from
> an old trackball mechanism. They're bigger, easier to work on, and a lot
> more solid. Most trackballs have optical encoders, but the parts are
> large enough to remount on a new chassis.
That is one way to do it. This mouse was $1. The shaft was strong enough
to screw a knob right to it. The "right" way is to have some gearing and
a flywheel for the right feel for Tempest or Arkanoid, but I did this in
an evening.
You can buy the right thing from places like Happ.
-ethan
=====
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Received on Sat Jul 14 2001 - 09:51:17 BST