Re: Optical mouse for DRO anyone?

Given the events of the past week, I understand how it would be
difficult to stay on topic. Despite the horrific events, I'll try to....

It would seem to me that optical mice are not being used by many
folks, especially not by us on this list.

I understand the economics of inexpensive options, but what if one
needs to measure position on a 50 ft. long axis? What if other
limitations prohibit use of a wheel or ball?

I have read the IEEE standard for PC mouse output, and the routine
needed to read one is actually pretty simple without a PC (it's a
serious API programming task to do so on a PC). Optical mice at the
cable end (or even wireless receiver end) are no different.

When I get some more free time, I'll post the links I started with,
and if I start to design & build something, I'll do the same - if
anyone is interested.

C