Ploopy, a company known for its DIY-friendly peripherals, has launched the Ploopy Bean, a standalone pointing device that emulates the functionality of the beloved TrackPoint found in Lenovo ThinkPads. This portable solution offers enhanced customization and a unique input experience for users seeking an alternative to traditional mice.
Key Takeaways
- The Ploopy Bean is a portable, external pointing stick device.
- It features four programmable buttons and is customizable via QMK firmware.
- The device utilizes a high-precision magnetic sensor for accurate cursor control.
- Ploopy also provides all design files, encouraging users to 3D print their own.
A Modern Take on the TrackPoint
The Ploopy Bean draws inspiration from IBM’s iconic TrackPoint, offering a similar pointing stick experience but as a separate peripheral. Unlike the integrated TrackPoint on ThinkPads, the Bean is designed to be used independently, providing a precise cursor control solution for any computer. It boasts a high-resolution drag scrolling feature and a 1,000Hz polling rate for responsive performance.
Advanced Features and Customization
At its core, the Bean is powered by a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller running open-source QMK firmware. This allows for extensive customization of its four Omron D2LS-21 switches, which are by default configured for left, middle, and right clicks, along with a drag scroll option. Users can further tailor the button functions, macros, and key combinations using the VIA web tool or by directly editing the firmware.
The device employs a Texas Instruments TMAG5273 magnetic sensor, capable of detecting movements as fine as 3 microns and sampling at 20,000 times per minute. The pointing stick itself offers a wider range of motion, up to 11mm in each axis, aiming to reduce fatigue during extended use.
Open Source and DIY Friendly
True to Ploopy’s ethos, the Bean is fully open-source. The company has made all necessary 3D models, electrical CAD files, firmware, and documentation publicly available on GitHub. This allows enthusiasts to not only customize the existing design but also to print their own replacement parts or even build a Bean from scratch. The pre-assembled version is 3D printed and available for pre-order, with pricing around $52 USD.
A Niche Appeal
While the Ploopy Bean offers a unique input method, its external nature has led some to question its practicality compared to the integrated TrackPoint’s efficiency in keeping hands on the keyboard. However, for users who specifically seek a portable, customizable pointing stick experience outside of a laptop keyboard, the Ploopy Bean presents an intriguing option.
Via Ploopy
