Ploopy Classic 2: a 3D-printed, optical trackball that can be purchased for $145

Trackball Ploopy Classic 2. Illustration: Ploopy

Ploopy, a Canadian company known for its open-source accessory development, has released the Classic 2, an updated version of its trackball that can not only be used for its intended purpose, but also reflashed, redesigned, and even printed on a 3D printer (all the relevant documentation is available on Github ). The Classic 2 has an updated scrolling mechanism that is fifteen times faster than its predecessor, providing crisp and tight scrolling; high-quality Omron D2LS-21 switches designed for at least 5 million clicks with minimal risk of false clicks; and a USB-C port instead of the old bulky USB-B connector.

Ploopy Classic 2 is all about radical transparency: all files, including source STEP models, PCB schematics, firmware, and more, are available for free and forever, with no restrictions; the company shares all parts and manufacturing methods so that users can make informed choices; and full documentation with instructions, photos, and diagrams makes it easy to assemble, modify, or maintain the device yourself.

Illustration of the Classic 2 trackball mounting boards: Ploopy

Ploopy Classic 2 has dimensions of 175×99×60 mm and weighs 260 g. The diameter of the ball is 44 mm. The trackball is equipped with a PMW-3360 tracking chip with a polling frequency of over 1000 Hz, a standard CPI value of 800 and the ability to adjust up to 12,000 CPI, acceleration of up to 50g, and the heart of the device is a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller with a Cortex M0 core and a frequency of 125 MHz.

Dimensions of the Classic 2 trackball: Ploopy

One of three Classic 2 trackball kits can be ordered on the manufacturer's website (pre-sale is already open): a fully ready-to-use kit ($145), a self-assembly kit ($100), and a minimal set of components ($14).

Image description. Illustration: Ploopy

Source: ploopy.co