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If you’ve considered enhancing your PC setup with a trackpad, a company called Ploopy has introduced a uniquely retro design that’s completely open-source. This open approach allows you to create your own device from the ground up, provided you have access to a 3D printer and some time.
The name Ploopy may sound familiar, perhaps due to their previous project: the 3D printable headphones we discussed last year. Now, they are offering a 3D printable trackpad (via Hackaday) that can be connected to any PC via USB.
If you’ve used a trackpad for gaming, particularly in first-person shooters, you might be curious as to why anyone would take the time to make one. Beyond the question of “Why not?”, another compelling reason is its usefulness for drawing, productivity tasks, and possibly enhancing mobility as well.
Using a trackpad offers intuitive control in video and image production software, and it can also be connected to a drawing application for creating illustrations. You can operate a trackpad like a traditional mouse or mirror your screen so that touching the edge of the pad corresponds to the edge of the display.
This screen mirroring setup is particularly useful because it allows you to precisely map your drawing movements within your drawing application. Achieving this level of precision can be significantly more challenging with even the best gaming mice.
If you’re interested in creating your own trackpad, Ploopy provides the option to 3D print the necessary components via their GitHub page. From there, you can follow the instructions, or visit Ploopy’s store. In the store, you can purchase the kit and assemble it yourself for $100 CAD, or opt for a pre-assembled version at $130 CAD. Both options allow you to choose between black or grey without the need for a 3D printer.
The primary advantage of purchasing from the store, aside from the ease of assembly, is that the kit includes a stylus for use with the trackpad. Unfortunately, this stylus is not mentioned in the 3D printing instructions, which is unfortunate as it can smartly be stored within the trackpad when you’re finished using it.
Ploopy is a nostalgic brand that specializes in creating mice featuring trackballs, the aforementioned trackpad and headphones, as well as a standalone Nano Trackball. While investing in such classic technology may seem unusual, its eccentricity and distinctiveness add to its appeal.
If you’re seeking an entertaining project and have a bit of a geeky side (much like myself), this could be an exciting way to spend a Tuesday evening. Additionally, if you’re in search of a trackpad compatible with your PC, this is an excellent option.
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