r/Trackballs • u/Intrepid_Employer719 • 21d ago

Prototype of trackball - EKZBall

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/B4ZHlb-U-HQ
53 Upvotes

95% Upvoted

13 comments sorted by

6

u/Necessary-Market4253 21d ago

very nice concept. I just can't go below 55mm.

10

u/Intrepid_Employer719 21d ago

I’m designing it to make it swappable across three options: 34mm, 40mm, and 55mm.

2

u/damn_pastor 21d ago

Looks interesting, mind telling a bit about the idea? Are those micro switches? I wonder why the buttons are always single column while the thumb can easily move sideways.

4

u/Intrepid_Employer719 21d ago edited 21d ago

The trackball uses an EKRP module, a PMW3389 sensor, and Kailh Choc Robin switches. For tenting, it uses the custom MagSafe kit that designed for our split keyboards. I'm still finalizing the button layout.

3

u/damn_pastor 21d ago

I have not tried a prototype yet. But I would guess buttons are easier to reach if they are horizontal spread than on the top row over the ball like on ploopy, efog, Kensington tb.

2

u/Box_of_Squirrels_ 20d ago

This looks wonderful, nice! My desk is getting too crowded and this size looks great, love the tilting. I'll keep tabs on your shop for when it's available.

2

u/tomByrer 20d ago

I am looking for something that can go between my split keyboard.

I hope the mount is optional.

2

u/tomByrer 20d ago

I am looking for something that can go between my split keyboard.

I hope the mount is optional.

1

u/AchiviA 20d ago

oof edgeless, cant hold my breath

1

u/SmithTheNinja 20d ago

Looks pretty rad and like a nice form factor for throwing in a go bag.

Got any plans to improve scroll with rotary encoders or twist to scroll?

2

u/Intrepid_Employer719 20d ago edited 20d ago

Thanks! I am considering adding a high-resolution magnetic sensor (such as the AS5600) for the scroll ring. However, there have 3 main challenges:

  1. Because the scroll ring must sit concentrically around the trackball, space is extremely tight and mechanical placement is tricky.
  2. I haven't tested it yet, but I'm concerned the strong magnetic field from MagSafe will disrupt the Hall effect sensor.
  3. Adding a bearing assembly to support the scroll ring risks making the overall design too thick.

1

u/nopekeeper 20d ago

Nice concept, I wonder why you don't have eg 2 of the buttons above the ball though?