dougp@sbphy.ucsb.edu (11/13/88)
I just got through reading a whole bunch of ways you can modify
track balls to make them work with the Amiga. I don't know about
the Wico track ball, but for the Atari track ball there is a much
simpler circuit mod than any of those listed. The instructions for
opening the case and adding a second mouse button were correct and
as simple as can be done, so I won't repeat them.
On the 2600 track ball circuit board there are 6 test points along
the front of the circuit board labled TPx where x is a number.
Near the cable connecter there is an IC labled 4019.
instructions:
1) pull out the 4019 IC
2) bend out pins 1,3,5,7
3) put the 4019 back in its socket
4) connect pins 1,3,5,7 to test points TP3,TP2,TP4,TP1 respctively
5) your done, you now have a 1 button track ball.
Comments: This assumes the 4019 is socketed, it was in mine, but since
Tramiel took over that may have changed. This mod keeps the function
of the joystick/track ball switch. I did this back when marble madness
came out, but did not have access to the net to report it at that time.
Disclamer: I poped open my trackball to check this as I wrote it,
however I still disclaim any resposibility for its accuracey or any
problems it causes. Do this at your own risk!
I also modified an Atari 5200 track ball to work as an Amiga mouse,
but I doubt anyone can get one of those, besides, those used brass
shafts to support the ball, and they wear out too fast.
(hows this for a short signature?) Douglas Peale