Logitech TrackMan Marble FX under Linux

↑Broken buttons

Like other Logitech mice the microswitches die eventually. It uses a MATSUSHITA AHM19001 9TH, unlike other mice that use an Omron D2FC-F-7N. The Omron can replace the left mouse button only, the holes through the microswitch are much smaller on the Omron, so wouldn't fit on the right mouse button mounting lugs.

The replacement is easy, unscrew 4 (one is behind the sticker) screws, desolder old button, solder new one in.

↑Connecting to your PC

It's native mode is PS/2, if you have a PS/2 port then it's easy. If not then there are several options.

Active PS2->USB Adaptor:

Active adaptors mostly just work, although I've not found one that understands the fourth button. Some interpret it as movement, most ignore it.

PS2->Serial->USB:

Despite being about the right age, I don't think it's designed to work with a passive serial adaptor. A TrackMan Portable does, and says it is rated for 5 and 12v on it's label. The marble FX however is only rated for 5v according to the label. That said, I tried it anyway. If you're not too fussed about destruction, then you can use a passive serial adaptor and a USB serial port to make a USB mouse. Once connected, do:Mouse movement works fine, however button presses result in gibberish being sent back over the link. There doesn't seem to be anything in the gibberish that corresponds to which button got pressed.

Gutting a Trackman Marble:

In theory you could rip the innards out of a USB trackman marble, I've had a brief nosey inside and this doesn't look like a trivial task.