Can the arduino control a computer mouse?

Forum 2005-2010 (read only) Hardware Interfacing
1

Alright, I'm completely new to this (first post too!) :sunglasses:

I was wondering if it would be possible to get the Arduino Uno to output through USB, and be read as a computer mouse.

And on that note, what is the output format of the computer mouse? Does anyone know of any resources where I might be able to learn more about the mouse interface?

My concept is to have a joystick that connects to the arduino, and then to have the arduino output through USB to the computer. I would assume that a mouse has 2 analog outputs typically for x-y positioning, and this is the tricky part - getting the computer to read the arduino's output as a mouse.

Anyone have any thoughts? While I am new to arduino, I have a bit of experience in mechatronics, and programming, so I can probably piece together any technical discussion. :wink:

2

well not to deter you But there are bpgrogramms which can turn a joystic into mouse :wink:

3

Still not detered!

Haha - that's good to know, and I'll look into it, but I'm looking for DIY project

4

well then look into the Ps2dev library in the wiki :slight_smile:

5

My concept is to have a joystick that connects to the arduino, and then to have the arduino output through USB to the computer.

You might use the forum search box and search for joystick.

6

to get the Arduino Uno to output through USB, and be read as a computer mouse.

It is tricky. You have to make the arduino's USB port look like a USB HID (Human Interface Device). This involves abandoning the built in USB connector and going for a USB shield but don't go for the host shield that is not what you want.
Look here:-

7

I was wondering if it would be possible to get the Arduino Uno to output through USB, and be read as a computer mouse.

Yes it's possible. It involves reprogramming of the ATmega8U2 chip (which is the replacement to the FTDI chip on the Duemilanove and previous boards).
If you search the forums, it has already been done as a joystick.

This involves abandoning the built in USB connector

Umm, not on the Uno - just use the ATmega chip.

Mowcius

8

check out usnoobie at seeed studio or (easier) teensy or teensy++ at prjc.com; both arduino compatible and have the capability to act like HID.