The Ploopy Bean is a 3D-printed, open-source hardware pointing stick mouse utilizing QMK open-source firmware on a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller to operate four Omron D2LS-21 buttons and a friction nub.
Ploopy is a Canadian company recognized for its open-source hardware computer accessories. Initially covered for their headphones in 2023, Ploopy has since developed a trackball mouse, a trackpad, a USB knob, and more. The Bean is the latest addition.
Ploopy Bean specifications:
Bean Pointing Stick PCB
– Microcontroller: Raspberry Pi RP2040 MCU
– USB: 1x USB-C port for power and data
– Buttons: 4x Omron D2LS-21 buttons configured as left click, right click, middle click, and click-to-drag/scroll by default (customizable)
– Sensor: Texas Instruments TMAG5273 high-precision 3D hall effect sensor for the nub; up to 20,000 ksps sample rate, detects 3+ microns movements
3D-printed parts – Top, bottom, and spring for red nub
Accessories
– 1x screw
– 1x magnet
– 4x friction pads
– 1x friction nub similar to the Lenovo TrackPoint
– USB-A to USB-C cable
Dimensions: 84 x 64 x 16mm
Weight: 5.2 grams
Though most will purchase a fully assembled unit, the Bean is fully open-source hardware, allowing for personal reproduction. The Altium Designer hardware design files, STEP and STL files for 3D printed parts, UF2 firmware (binary), and documentation, including assembly instructions, are available on GitHub.
The source code for the QML firmware is in the official repo. The Bean can be customized using the “VIA” web application, requiring only a config file to enable support before accessing the VIA web app with a compatible web browser like Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Opera (not Firefox). The QMK firmware is licensed under GPLv3, and the hardware design files are under OHL CERN v2-S.
Ploopy offers the Bean pointing stick for pre-order for $69.99 CAD (about $51 US), supporting unique, niche, open-source hardware development.
Via Liliputing
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, transitioning to writing daily news and reviews full-time in 2011.