DIY Mouse

GitHub Page

What is the project about?

This is a completely open-source custom DIY mouse. It uses a high-performance Pixart PMW3389 sensor (16,000 DPI) paired with a XIAO ESP32-C3 MCU, any mouse switches of your choice and an EC11 rotary encoder for unique and improved scrolling functionality. This mouse is powerful enough to match most high-end mice in terms of input latency and movement accuracy.

Why did I make this?

This is my first ever project. This has taken 100+ hours to reach this point and I've learned a lot from completing it.

I've learned how to:

• Use KiCad to create schematics and physical PCB layouts
• Use Fusion 360 to 3D model
• Use 3D printing software to fine-tune settings for an optimal print
• Write low-level firmware code
• Use Git
• Write descriptions

Furthermore, "right to repair" is becoming less and less common for consumer electronics. This project allows people to understand their electronics on an extremely low-level, allowing them to repair their electronics, saving money and the environment. The switches and MCU are hot-swappable. This allows upgrading and repairs on a new-level.

How does it work?

• Hardware SPI communication: the sensor and MCU communicate via a high-speed SPI bus, through which the raw movement data and setup data is transferred.
• Power management: An onboard XC6206 1.8v LDO handles voltage differences and provides stable, low-noise power to the sensor; essential for high-performance.
• Firmware: A custom C++ library and mouse code were created for this project. This handles communication and initialisation to and from the sensor as well as handling scrolling and button clicks.
• Enclosure/Shell: Designed in Fusion 360, made for 3D printing. Uses M2 brass heat-inserts embedded in the shell to ensure strong, repeatable assembly and disassembly, without wearing down.

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