Furthermore, the difference between a 3.99 and 4.01 star rating on Amazon is roughly 200% or more in sales! Please consider carefully if you're thinking about leaving less than 4 stars. Again if you have any problems with or questions about the product PLEASE SEEK SUPPORT FROM ME VIA A PUBLIC GITHUB ISSUE ABOVE (PREFERRED) OR EMAIL (ALSO FINE) FIRST.
Computa Pranksta Mouse Jiggler now available on Amazon!
Click link above or image below to go to Amazon and purchase.
Also available now on Ebay! See my listing, as Ebay seller "electricrcaircraftguy", here.
Computa Pranksta User Manual
For Device Version: v0.90.0 or later
By Gabriel Staples
Written: 12 Apr. 2017
Last Updated: 9 Feb. 2019
Update History (newest on TOP):
-20200908 - added GitHub support page and CAD files for 3D-printed case
-20200214 - copied and pasted my recommended mouse jiggler settings from Amazon
-20190209 - added 2nd YouTube video: Reconfiguring the Computa Pranksta for use as a USB Mouse Jiggler to keep your screensaver off
-20180505 - added "Quick Reference 'Cheat Sheet'" picture
-20180324 - added link to my listing on Ebay too
-20171228 - added list of associated keywords to end
-20170717 - added YouTube video: "How to Use & Configure..."
-20170423 - bug section updated w/some info about Caps Lock Response Mode 10
-20170422 - now available for sale on Amazon! Purchase links added.
-20170421 - added images
-20170416 - added bug notes; minor additions
-20170412 - initial version
[As recommended on Amazon]
FOR USE AS A USB MOUSE JIGGLER TO KEEP YOUR SCREENSAVER OFF, set the settings as follows:
Congratulations on your purchase of the Computa Pranksta USB Mouse and Keyboard device. Don't have one yet? Click the link above to purchase it on Amazon. This device is great for playing tricks on your friends, or just for keeping your computer awake when giving presentations, watching movies, playing certain video games (like Real Flight RC simulator) or when you don't have admin rights to change screensaver and screen lock settings.
This devices does NOT require any software or special drivers on your PC. It simply tells the computer it is a standard Human Interface Device mouse and keyboard. If your computer tries to detect a new device and install a driver, don't worry about it--even if it says it "fails." The device will work anyway.
Computa Pranksta facts:
DISCLAIMER: YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR HOW YOU USE THIS DEVICE AND ANY REPERCUSSIONS FROM YOUR USE OF THE PRODUCT. I AM NOT LIABLE FOR HOW YOU CHOOSE TO USE IT OR THE CONSEQUENCES OF YOUR USE OF THE PRODUCT--THAT'S ALL ON YOU. Also, this product is not affiliated with Digistump in any way.
What it does:
The Computa Pranksta can type on your computer and move your mouse. It's essentially a "smart" USB mouse and keyboard with special functions, keystrokes, and movements pre-programmed in. Due to the nature of how USB keyboards work, however, it also has the unique feature of being able to *read* Caps Lock, Num Lock, and Scroll Lock key presses you make on your actual keyboard. This is important, as this is how you will interact with the device to change its configuration settings.
It has a total of 8 x 9 x 12 x 9 x 12 = 93,312 user configuration permutations, or unique user configurations. Have fun. Try them all. :)
What to do when the Computa Pranksta first arrives:
How to Enter "Programming Mode" (Scroll Lock x 5):
To enter programming mode, open up any text editor (ex: Microsoft Word, Notepad, LibreOffice Writer, etc, but NOT Notepad++, as its autocomplete feature messes up the typed output from the device). With your cursor in the editor, plug in the Computa Pranksta. Once it is active, press Scroll Lock 5 times quickly. If you wait too long between presses (~ 1 sec) it will time out and you'll have to do the 5 presses again. The device will type out the following into your text editor you have open:
Press the Scroll Lock 5 times (SCROLL X 5) quickly again. If you do NOT press this sequence again to save your settings, they will remain only until the device is unplugged. Once the device is unplugged and plugged back in, it will revert to its previously-saved settings.
NOTE: IN PROGRAMMING MODE, ALL MODES ARE TEMPORARILY DISABLED UNTIL YOU EXIT PROGRAMMING MODE, EXCEPT FOR MOUSE MOVE MODE, WHICH WILL CONTINUE TO FUNCTION EVEN DURING PROGRAMMING MODE.
In programming mode, reset all modes to default by pressing Scroll Lock 10 times in a row (SCROLL X 10). Again, this only works while in programming mode.
Important: Doing this does NOT update the values saved on the device. To keep the values from being reset to what they were when you cycle power you must still do Scroll x 5 to save and exit.
-while in programming mode, press Scroll Lock two times to cycle through these modes
Print (type out) all current mode settings (SCROLL X 3):
-while in programming mode, press Scroll Lock three times to print (type out) all current mode settings.
Here is an example of the output:
keyboardMode = 2
timingModeKeyboard = 3
mouseMode = 3
timingModeMouse = 0
capsMode = 1
ADVERTISEMENT:
Mouse Move Modes (CAPS X 1)
FAQ
Known Bugs:
-Bugs are problems or errors with the code and implementation of the code. Ie: these are things I can work on and hopefully fix. If you discover any bugs please report them to me via the comments section below this article or by email (see the "Contact Me" tab at the top of this website to find my email address). Be sure to provide me with your product version number (obtained by pressing SCROLL X 5 to enter programming mode) and approximate date of purchase to help me track down the correct source code to debug.
Known Issues:
-Issues are outcomes which are normal due to the nature of the product, but about which the customer should be informed in order to work through them. They are different from bugs in that they are not problems or errors with my source code that I have direct control over fixing.
END
Keywords: computer prankster usb device, computer prankster user manual, Computer Prankster USB Mouse & Keyboard Device User Manual, computer prankster, mouse jiggler, mouse wiggler, mouse shaker, keep your pc awake, keep computer awake, prevent computer from going to sleep, sleep disabler, phantom keystroker, mouse/keyboard combo, programmable mouse jiggler, programmable mouse wiggler, Arduino digispark compatible device, usb prank device, usb gadget, phantom keyboard, phantom typing, phantom key strokes, phantom keystrokes, make friends think their PC is hacked, prank toys, computer prank stuff, stocking stuffer, cheap birthday gifts, Father's Day presents, Father's Day toys, computer nerd gifts, computer nerd stuff
-20190209 - added 2nd YouTube video: Reconfiguring the Computa Pranksta for use as a USB Mouse Jiggler to keep your screensaver off
-20180505 - added "Quick Reference 'Cheat Sheet'" picture
-20180324 - added link to my listing on Ebay too
-20171228 - added list of associated keywords to end
-20170717 - added YouTube video: "How to Use & Configure..."
-20170423 - bug section updated w/some info about Caps Lock Response Mode 10
-20170422 - now available for sale on Amazon! Purchase links added.
-20170421 - added images
-20170416 - added bug notes; minor additions
-20170412 - initial version
[NEW as of Sept. 2020] GitHub page:
- https://github.com/ElectricRCAircraftGuy/eRCaGuy_ComputaPranksta_Support
- Support --> scroll down to "Support / Email / Submit an Issue here on GitHub"
- FAQ
- CAD files for a 3D-printed case you can make yourself --> scroll down to "CAD Files for a 3D-printed case"
[As recommended on Amazon]
FOR USE AS A USB MOUSE JIGGLER TO KEEP YOUR SCREENSAVER OFF, set the settings as follows:
- Keyboard Typing Mode: 0 (OFF)
- Keyboard Timing Mode: anything
- Mouse Move Mode: 2 (randomMouseBuzzAround) or 4 (multiCursor 2)
- Mouse Timing Mode: 5 (every 30~60 sec) or 6 (every 1~5 min)
- Caps Lock Response Mode: 0 (OFF)
Quick Reference "Cheat Sheet" |
This devices does NOT require any software or special drivers on your PC. It simply tells the computer it is a standard Human Interface Device mouse and keyboard. If your computer tries to detect a new device and install a driver, don't worry about it--even if it says it "fails." The device will work anyway.
Video 1/2: How to Use & Configure the Computa Pranksta USB Keyboard & Mouse Prank Device
Video 2/2: Reconfiguring the Computa Pranksta for use as a USB Mouse Jiggler to keep your screensaver off:
Computa Pranksta facts:
- It does NOT require any special software on your computer.
- It does NOT install anything on your computer.
- It doesn't harm your computer.
- It DOES type on your computer just like a human would be able to type on a keyboard.
- It DOES move and control your mouse on your computer just like a human would be able to move the mouse physically around to control the cursor.
- The computer thinks it's a USB keyboard and mouse.
- To see all that the Computa Pranksta can do jump straight down and read the text in blue for all of its various modes and functions.
- It has 93312 unique user configurations.
- It may take up to 10~15 sec or so to begin working once you plug the Computa Pranksta into a USB port.
- If it doesn't seem to work in one of your USB ports, keep trying until you've tried *all* the ports, as not all ports are exactly the same. As a last resort, plug the device into a USB 2.0 hub and then plug the hub into the computer.
- It has been tested and works in Windows.
- It has not been tested in Mac OS, in Linux, or on Chromebooks. No guarantees it will work on these operating systems, but you can always try.
- See also the FAQ here.
- It's just a keyboard/mouse combo. Here are the Super Geek details of how it works!
DISCLAIMER: YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR HOW YOU USE THIS DEVICE AND ANY REPERCUSSIONS FROM YOUR USE OF THE PRODUCT. I AM NOT LIABLE FOR HOW YOU CHOOSE TO USE IT OR THE CONSEQUENCES OF YOUR USE OF THE PRODUCT--THAT'S ALL ON YOU. Also, this product is not affiliated with Digistump in any way.
The Computa Pranksta can type on your computer and move your mouse. It's essentially a "smart" USB mouse and keyboard with special functions, keystrokes, and movements pre-programmed in. Due to the nature of how USB keyboards work, however, it also has the unique feature of being able to *read* Caps Lock, Num Lock, and Scroll Lock key presses you make on your actual keyboard. This is important, as this is how you will interact with the device to change its configuration settings.
It has a total of 8 x 9 x 12 x 9 x 12 = 93,312 user configuration permutations, or unique user configurations. Have fun. Try them all. :)
Just reading to see what this thing can do?
What to do when the Computa Pranksta first arrives:
- Plug it in to any USB port (preferably a USB 2.0 port). It may not work in some USB 3.0 ports. You can identify USB 3.0 ports because they are marked SS ("Super Speed"), or have a blue plug. If you only have USB 3.0 ports, try each port. If the Computa Pranksta doesn't work in any USB 3.0 ports, plug a USB 2.0 hub in then plug the device into the hub.
- It may take up to 10~15 sec or so to begin working once you plug the Computa Pranksta into a USB port.
- When you first receive it and plug it in:
- It will slowly drag your mouse to the lower-left corner of the screen.
- It will randomly type a random number (1-10 characters) of random characters every 0 to 10 seconds. To see the characters type out, ensure you have a text editor open (Microsoft Word, Notepad, email, LibreOffice Writer, etc...)
- Here's an example of the text output after several seconds: Nb{Ef>{&H%BVSV'l,K",Pa{@U>2AUGG=$^YD{g?U_[kL6ratTB >$DvRcv$
- Press Caps Lock to cycle through 11 unique mouse movement modes plus the mouse OFF mode, for a total of 12 Mouse Move modes.
- CAUTION: It doesn't have a protective case (sorry, maybe in a future version), so I recommend you wrap up the bare circuitry part of the device (except the plug part of it of course) in electrical tape or masking tape or something, to protect it from static electricity/Electro-Static Discharge (ESD). This is especially important in dry climates, where static electricity is worse. You might consider putting it in the silver ESD-safe bag it first came in to keep it safe during transport and when not in use.
CAUTION: Do NOT try and reprogram the Computa Pranksta from source code or else you will permanently lose its functionality and have to buy another one to get its functionality back.
To reconfigure the device's settings, you will use a unique sequence of Scroll Lock and Caps Lock key presses, as described below.
- If you think your keyboard doesn't have Scroll Lock or Caps Lock, look for the smaller font on your keys (usually blue in color) associated with the "FN" Function key. You may have to hold the FN key while pressing INS, for instance, to get Scroll Lock. Google your particular laptop or keyboard for help. A special key sequence may be required.
- For Chromebooks, for example, a quick Google search tells me that alt + search is used for Caps Lock. For Scroll Lock, you may be able to use an "On-Screen Keyboard" to access a virtual Scroll Lock button, or just plug in an external keyboard with built-in Scroll Lock.
- Use an external keyboard to get Caps Lock and Scroll Lock if you have no other choice. Remember, the device will still function without you being able to press these keys--it's just that you need these keys to reconfigure the settings. Again, pressing these keys is only required to reconfigure the Computa Pranksta, not for it to work normally.
How to Enter "Programming Mode" (Scroll Lock x 5):
To enter programming mode, open up any text editor (ex: Microsoft Word, Notepad, LibreOffice Writer, etc, but NOT Notepad++, as its autocomplete feature messes up the typed output from the device). With your cursor in the editor, plug in the Computa Pranksta. Once it is active, press Scroll Lock 5 times quickly. If you wait too long between presses (~ 1 sec) it will time out and you'll have to do the 5 presses again. The device will type out the following into your text editor you have open:
Computa Pranksta v0.90.0, by Gabriel Staples, www.ElectricRCAircraftGuy.com keyboardMode = 2 timingModeKeyboard = 3 mouseMode = 3 timingModeMouse = 0 capsMode = 1
Notice that upon entering programming mode it prints (types out) its name, its version number, and the author and website, followed by the 5 different mode settings and which mode number they are set to. Each of these 5 settings is described in detail in the blue text below.
To save your settings and exit programming mode:Press the Scroll Lock 5 times (SCROLL X 5) quickly again. If you do NOT press this sequence again to save your settings, they will remain only until the device is unplugged. Once the device is unplugged and plugged back in, it will revert to its previously-saved settings.
NOTE: IN PROGRAMMING MODE, ALL MODES ARE TEMPORARILY DISABLED UNTIL YOU EXIT PROGRAMMING MODE, EXCEPT FOR MOUSE MOVE MODE, WHICH WILL CONTINUE TO FUNCTION EVEN DURING PROGRAMMING MODE.
How to reset all settings to default:
In programming mode, reset all modes to default by pressing Scroll Lock 10 times in a row (SCROLL X 10). Again, this only works while in programming mode.
Important: Doing this does NOT update the values saved on the device. To keep the values from being reset to what they were when you cycle power you must still do Scroll x 5 to save and exit.
Changing Keyboard, Mouse, and Caps Lock Response Modes:
User Configuration Key Presses Quick Reference: |
---|
To enter/exit programming mode: SCROLL X 5 While in programming mode: SCROLL X 1 = Change Keyboard Typing Mode SCROLL X 2 = Change Keyboard Timing Mode SCROLL X 3 = Print all current mode settings SCROLL X 10 = Reset all modes to defaults CAPS X 1 = Change Mouse Move Mode CAPS X 2 = Change Mouse Timing Mode CAPS X 3 = Change Caps Lock Response Mode Key: SCROLL is Scroll Lock CAPS is Caps Lock "KEY X n" (ex: "CAPS X 3") means "quickly press the specified key 'n' number of times in a row to perform this action" |
Keyboard Typing Modes (SCROLL X 1):
-performed randomly according to the Keyboard Timing Mode interval setting below
-while in programming mode, press Scroll Lock one time to cycle through these modes
0. OFF
1. randomly type a single random character
2. randomly type a random number (1-10 characters) of random characters (DEFAULT)
3. randomly type "hello"
4. randomly type “G”
5. randomly press (ie: toggle) the Caps Lock key; note: this will also trigger the CapsLock Response Mode set below—including cycling through the Mouse Move Modes if that’s what you choose to do, for example.*
6. randomly scroll up a random distance (1-10 mouse scroll wheel “clicks”) on the screen (makes it hard to read their emails or websites)
7. randomly put the computer to sleep (you mean prankster you!) (§)
*However, if the CapsLock Response Mode is set to sleep, the Keyboard Typing Mode will NOT press Caps Lock, as this effect can be achieved instead simply by setting the Keyboard Typing Mode to sleep.
(§). NOTE: if the keyboard “put computer to sleep” mode is selected, for your protection (so that you don’t get locked out from being able to reprogram the device) Keyboard Timing Mode CANNOT be set to modes 0 through 3, inclusive. In other words, the device will automatically set the Keyboard Timing Mode to mode 4 if you try to set it to 0, 1, 2, or 3.
-while in programming mode, press Scroll Lock one time to cycle through these modes
0. OFF
1. randomly type a single random character
2. randomly type a random number (1-10 characters) of random characters (DEFAULT)
3. randomly type "hello"
4. randomly type “G”
5. randomly press (ie: toggle) the Caps Lock key; note: this will also trigger the CapsLock Response Mode set below—including cycling through the Mouse Move Modes if that’s what you choose to do, for example.*
6. randomly scroll up a random distance (1-10 mouse scroll wheel “clicks”) on the screen (makes it hard to read their emails or websites)
7. randomly put the computer to sleep (you mean prankster you!) (§)
*However, if the CapsLock Response Mode is set to sleep, the Keyboard Typing Mode will NOT press Caps Lock, as this effect can be achieved instead simply by setting the Keyboard Typing Mode to sleep.
(§). NOTE: if the keyboard “put computer to sleep” mode is selected, for your protection (so that you don’t get locked out from being able to reprogram the device) Keyboard Timing Mode CANNOT be set to modes 0 through 3, inclusive. In other words, the device will automatically set the Keyboard Timing Mode to mode 4 if you try to set it to 0, 1, 2, or 3.
Keyboard Timing Modes (SCROLL X 2):
-controls how often the “Keyboard Typing Mode” action occurs-while in programming mode, press Scroll Lock two times to cycle through these modes
0. randomly every 0 to 0.1 sec (§)
1. randomly every 0 to 0.2 sec (§)
2. randomly every 0 to 2 sec (§)
3. randomly every 0 to 10 sec (§) (DEFAULT)
4. randomly every 10 to 30 sec
5. randomly every 30 to 60 sec
6. randomly every 1 to 5 min
7. randomly every 5 to 15 min
8. randomly every 15 min to 1 hr
Print (type out) all current mode settings (SCROLL X 3):
-while in programming mode, press Scroll Lock three times to print (type out) all current mode settings.
Here is an example of the output:
keyboardMode = 2
timingModeKeyboard = 3
mouseMode = 3
timingModeMouse = 0
capsMode = 1
-performed according to the Mouse Timing Mode interval setting below
-this is the only mode that will actually remain active during programming mode, this way you can see its effect immediately while in programming mode
-while in programming mode, press Caps Lock one time to cycle through these modes
-while in programming mode, press Caps Lock one time to cycle through these modes
0. OFF
1. randomMouseJumpAround
2. randomMouseBuzzAround
3. dragMouseToLowerLeft (DEFAULT)
4. multiCursor 2
5. multiCursor 3
6. multiCursor 4
7. multiCursor 5
8. mouseCircle
9. mouseSquare
10. mouseHeart
11. mouseStar
Mouse Timing Modes (CAPS X 2)
-controls how often the “Mouse Move Mode” action occurs
-while in programming mode, press Caps Lock two times to cycle through these modes
0. continuously move (DEFAULT)
1. randomly every 0 to 0.2 sec
2. randomly every 0 to 2 sec
3. randomly every 0 to 10 sec
4. randomly every 10 to 30 sec
5. randomly every 30 to 60 sec
6. randomly every 1 to 5 min
7. randomly every 5 to 15 min
8. randomly every 15 min to 1 hr
-while in programming mode, press Caps Lock two times to cycle through these modes
0. continuously move (DEFAULT)
1. randomly every 0 to 0.2 sec
2. randomly every 0 to 2 sec
3. randomly every 0 to 10 sec
4. randomly every 10 to 30 sec
5. randomly every 30 to 60 sec
6. randomly every 1 to 5 min
7. randomly every 5 to 15 min
8. randomly every 15 min to 1 hr
Caps Lock Response Modes (CAPS X 3)
-performed every time the Caps Lock key is pressed (or as described below) and if the Computa Pranksta is plugged in
-while in programming mode, press Caps Lock three times to cycle through these modes
0. OFF
1. cycle through all Mouse Move Modes (DEFAULT)
2. cycle only through “MultiCursor” Mouse Move Modes (1 through 5 cursors)
3. cycle through the Keyboard Typing Modes (do the next Keyboard Typing Mode action once right now, but also keep it on to randomly occur at the given Keyboard Timing Mode interval)
4. allow the currently set Mouse Move Mode to function only when CapsLock is ON (this mode is good to keep your computer awake while doing professional presentations, for example; just turn the Keyboard Typing Mode OFF, and now use Caps Lock to turn mouse movement on and off)
5. allow the currently set Mouse Move Mode to function only when CapsLock is OFF (this one is pretty good/quite irritating whenever you’re typing, because if you want to type in lowercase you have to turn CapsLock OFF, which means the mouse movement is ON, so you can’t click around in the document properly to edit it. This means you have to constantly press CapsLock to either type properly or click properly, but you can’t do both at once. :))
6. type a single random character
7. type a random number (1-10 characters) of random characters
8. type “hello”
9. type a “G”
10. keep CapsLock on; every time the user turns CapsLock OFF, the Computa Pranksta will say (figuratively—it doesn’t actually type this), “no way, not on my watch!” and turn that CapsLock right back ON within 15 seconds; great prank on people trying to type, as every 15 sec or less while typing they’ll have to hit the Caps Lock key again to turn it back off (or hold shift) in order to type lower case letters
11. put the computer to sleep (you mean prankster you!); here’s a fun prank! Turn on the computer’s Caps Lock, *then* plug in this device in this setting. When the user notices their Caps Lock key is on and goes to turn it off, their computer goes to sleep!
When all done configuring your device, don't forget to press SCROLL X 5 to save and exit programming mode!
-while in programming mode, press Caps Lock three times to cycle through these modes
0. OFF
1. cycle through all Mouse Move Modes (DEFAULT)
2. cycle only through “MultiCursor” Mouse Move Modes (1 through 5 cursors)
3. cycle through the Keyboard Typing Modes (do the next Keyboard Typing Mode action once right now, but also keep it on to randomly occur at the given Keyboard Timing Mode interval)
4. allow the currently set Mouse Move Mode to function only when CapsLock is ON (this mode is good to keep your computer awake while doing professional presentations, for example; just turn the Keyboard Typing Mode OFF, and now use Caps Lock to turn mouse movement on and off)
5. allow the currently set Mouse Move Mode to function only when CapsLock is OFF (this one is pretty good/quite irritating whenever you’re typing, because if you want to type in lowercase you have to turn CapsLock OFF, which means the mouse movement is ON, so you can’t click around in the document properly to edit it. This means you have to constantly press CapsLock to either type properly or click properly, but you can’t do both at once. :))
6. type a single random character
7. type a random number (1-10 characters) of random characters
8. type “hello”
9. type a “G”
10. keep CapsLock on; every time the user turns CapsLock OFF, the Computa Pranksta will say (figuratively—it doesn’t actually type this), “no way, not on my watch!” and turn that CapsLock right back ON within 15 seconds; great prank on people trying to type, as every 15 sec or less while typing they’ll have to hit the Caps Lock key again to turn it back off (or hold shift) in order to type lower case letters
11. put the computer to sleep (you mean prankster you!); here’s a fun prank! Turn on the computer’s Caps Lock, *then* plug in this device in this setting. When the user notices their Caps Lock key is on and goes to turn it off, their computer goes to sleep!
When all done configuring your device, don't forget to press SCROLL X 5 to save and exit programming mode!
Troubleshooting:
FAQ
Known Bugs:
-Bugs are problems or errors with the code and implementation of the code. Ie: these are things I can work on and hopefully fix. If you discover any bugs please report them to me via the comments section below this article or by email (see the "Contact Me" tab at the top of this website to find my email address). Be sure to provide me with your product version number (obtained by pressing SCROLL X 5 to enter programming mode) and approximate date of purchase to help me track down the correct source code to debug.
- In firmware v0.90.0, Caps Lock Response Mode 10 ("keep CapsLock on"), doesn't behave exactly as originally intended. Instead of ensuring the Caps Lock key is on every 15 seconds, it does the following. For the first 256 seconds or so, it works as expected, ensuring Caps Lock is on (or turning it on) every 15 seconds. After 256 seconds, however, due to an implicit promotion of bytes to signed integers when used in mathematical operations, the Caps Lock is simply forced to remain on, or rapidly pulsed on and off continually. Since this errant behavior is still an excellent prank, however, there's no reason to despair. :) Just use it as-is! For firmware versions v0.93.0 and on (this is the 2nd released version), however, the bug is fixed and the Caps Lock will be triggered to ON only every 15 seconds when in this mode, as originally intended.
Known Issues:
-Issues are outcomes which are normal due to the nature of the product, but about which the customer should be informed in order to work through them. They are different from bugs in that they are not problems or errors with my source code that I have direct control over fixing.
- “Jammed” key; ie: the actual physical keyboard won’t respond after I unplugged the device while it was in the middle of typing something out
- Problem: If you unplug the device in the moment it is typing a character on the keyboard, it may “jam” a virtual key on the keyboard, and your actual keyboard on the computer may temporarily not respond properly (until you do the below fix). Ex: pressing “ctrl + A” to select everything in the text document you are working on may not respond anymore. I say “virtual” key because no physical key on your keyboard is actually jammed. The way that this device types capital letters is by pressing a “shift” modifier key in conjunction with a key code. It is possible that your computer got caught up somewhere during this transmission, since you unplugged the device in the middle of the transmission.
- Solution:
- Unjam the virtual modifier key by pressing the Caps Lock and Shift keys a couple times each on your keyboard. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you need to press every key on your keyboard until you press the “jammed” one to resend a clean signal from the keyboard to your PC. The easiest way to do this is to first “Lock” your screen (see below for how to do this) and then gently press the base or side of your hand down on as many keys as you can at once, and drag your hand back and forth across the keyboard until you’ve pressed all the keys. I say to do it this way simply so you can press them all quickly and not waste your time pressing them one at a time to find the jammed key.
- To “Lock” your screen:
- Windows 7: click the Start Menu, then the little arrow next to the power options, and choose “Lock”
- Windows 8: click the Start Screen button, then click your little name and picture in the top-right of the screen, and go to “Lock”
- You can also try the shortcut: Windows Key + L, but this probably won’t work if you have a jammed virtual key.
- If the above doesn’t work, just restart your PC. However, let me note: I’ve never had to do this to fix the jammed key problem. Pressing Caps Lock, Shift, or all the keys on the keyboard has always worked for me.
- Device doesn’t work in USB 3.0 ports. Note that you can identify USB 3.0 ports on a computer because they are oftentimes marked with either a blue plastic center, or they say “SS” or “Super Speed” or something along those lines next to the port.
- Problem: This device is a USB 1.1 compliant low-speed device. Sometimes, for whatever reason, these just don’t work well in modern USB 3.0 ports.
- Solution: Plug this device into a USB 2.0 port or into a USB 2.0 hub which is plugged into a USB 3.0 or 2.0 port.
- Device doesn’t work after computer wakes up from sleep (assuming it is what put the computer to sleep, for instance).
- Problem: After the device puts a computer back to sleep, sadly (maybe I can find a work-around for this in a future version), it doesn’t properly reconnect to the computer. This means it won’t continue running from where it left off.
- Solution: Turn the computer back on (ie: wake it from sleep if you haven't yet), then unplug the device and plug it back in to get it talking to the computer properly again
END
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It works!
ReplyDeleteI did have some trouble with USB ports, but I found a port that worked. We have a policy that our work computer automatically logs us out after 15 minutes of non-use. Software "mouse-jigglers" are not allowed. This keeps the mouse moving without the need for any input or software.
Thanks!
Hi, what settings in the device have you seen to be the most desirable for this application? (I imagine you've changed them a bit?)
DeleteWell, it worked for one day and then poof, no good. Now all it does is give me the "USB device not recognized" error and nothing happens.
ReplyDeleteThat's too bad. Have you tried it in another computer? In all the computer's ports? In a USB 2.0 hub? Does the computer show the little icon in the bottom right indicating it's trying to install a driver after you plug it in? I've found in some computers it *does* need to complete that driver installation for it to work, and that automatic driver installation can take up to 5+ minutes.
DeleteI wonder if you've shocked it accidentally and killed it. Have you been carrying it around outside of the static bag it came in? Ex: bouncing around in a backpack? Is the humidity in your area super low (this increases the probability of electrostatic buildup and shocking it)?
I recommend you put electrical tape around the device to protect it.
Try all of those things and let me know what you find. If you try it in multiple computers and all the ports, and in a USB 2.0 hub, I'll send you a replacement if it still doesn't work.
Also, please ensure you did NOT set the device to do nothing. Perhaps you've turned it off without even realizing it?! Put it in to the last known working computer and USB port, open up a text editor, and press Scroll Lock 5 times to see what the programming settings are. Confirm that it's set in a working mode and not just turned off.
DeleteI just opened my device I received and plugged it in. Waited 5 minutes and nothing. My laptop won't recognize that the device is even there. The red light is on but nothing is happening at all. All my USB ports are 2.0 and I've tried them all. Not sure what to do from here.
ReplyDeleteI'll need to confirm your order on Amazon too.
DeleteI'll send you a replacement. Email me your address please. (Don't post it here)
ReplyDeletemal_function, I just packaged one up in an envelope for you. It will go out in the mail on Monday.
DeleteGenius!
ReplyDeleteJust one clarification for new users such as myself.
MAKE SURE YOU EXIT PROGRAMMING MODE.
That's right. If you don't, it won't save your settings permanently and once you unplug it its settings will revert back to what they were.
DeleteHi. I work in a software development company so modifying code is par for the course. How would one gain access to the source code to create custom functions with this device? I need to make this thing spell out a specific word every once in awhile. The prank just isn't as good without the personalized touch.
ReplyDeleteHi, unfortunately the code is closed source at this time. However, there are a variety of Arduino or Arduino-compatible boards and libraries that can be used with this or similar devices for basic keyboard and mouse control. I'm also considering releasing a paid (ex: $10/download or so) light version of my source code so people can learn to do their own stuff. Lastly, future versions I have in mind will probably have more customization abilities like what you're asking for.
DeleteItem arrived today, I've reread the manual several times to make sure I fully understand it, plugged it in, watched it go, reprogrammed the mouse mode, saved it, and DONE. Looks like it'll work perfectly for what I need. I'm totally stoked. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteAwesome! How's it working out for you?
DeleteWhen I first plugged it in, it recognized, installed. I pressed CAPS and it printed a bunch of stuff out until it said DONE. It reprints it all if I press CAPS once, but it doesn't change any settings and seems to be ignoring SCROLL LOCK for entering 'programming mode'.
ReplyDelete@Unknown, unfortunately, there was a mistake on a few of the items in our last production, and the final code was not properly loaded onto the product. Please Feedback/Corrections/Contact me link at the top of the website, obtain my email, and email me. I can verify your order and then send you a replacement.
ReplyDeleteCool Product, but I purchased a two-pack on Amazon as it was a better deal than the Mouse Jiggler that I heard was good (and I have two computers who need this), but I simply want it for the jiggling aspect. No offense, but I do not intend to use it as you designed it, so maybe I misunderstood the optional features. My intention is to have it in while I'm working so that if I step away for a bit, my work-issued laptop won't go to sleep and kick me off VPN (it's not a big deal, but it's a hassle re-logging in a couple times a day). I think I programmed it to where it only moves every 5-15 min and in the "buzz" way, but I found that if I'm using the keyboard, I may hit the CAPS lock and then it throws your device into a different mode. Long story short, is there a simpler way to just use it throughout the day and it keep the same program to just move my mouse a hair every so often to avoid logging out? -- TJ
ReplyDelete@TJ, you are using it as-designed. The "prank" purpose is a side use. To use it as you desire you just need to turn off the caps lock response mode so it will quit changing modes when you use Caps Lock. In essence, you are accidentally "pranking" yourself. So, just turn that off. Copied and pasted from my Amazon sales page:
ReplyDeleteFOR USE AS A USB MOUSE JIGGLER TO KEEP YOUR SCREENSAVER OFF, set the settings as follows:
Keyboard Typing Mode: 0 (OFF) <== make sure to do this
Keyboard Timing Mode: anything
Mouse Move Mode: 2 (randomMouseBuzzAround) or 4 (multiCursor 2)
Mouse Timing Mode: 5 (every 30~60 sec) or 6 (every 1~5 min)
Caps Lock Response Mode: 0 (OFF) <=== this is what you forgot
Just got it. It is so cool. Simple. Someone had to take the trouble to build it. Like the options. I need to get more, for me, and for gifts.
ReplyDeleteWhat is capsMode = 1 ?
ReplyDeleteGlad you like it! CapsMode = 1 means "1. cycle through all Mouse Move Modes (DEFAULT)". See above. This means that every time you press your Caps Lock key, it will change the mouse move mode to the next mode. This is the default behavior.
ReplyDeleteI was looking forward to the COMPUTA PRANKSTA and all it does is the red light shines. Nothing happens and I got on Amazon. I guess I will return. Sad I was looking forward to using it at work.
ReplyDeleteRoy, email me and I'll help you out.
ReplyDeletebought 3, programmed 2 and they work as expected. attempted to program the 3rd and it just flashes at me. All done in 5 min of each other on same computer with no changes between except switching the usb. please let me know how to resolve.
ReplyDeleteHi "Unknown" (Michael). I received your email and replied there yesterday. I'll be sending you a replacement.
ReplyDeleteDylan, sorry to hear that. If you're doing everything the same as before, on the same machine, and in the same USB port (NOT all USB ports are created equal, even in the same computer), then the device must be broken. This is likely due to static shock, even if you didn't feel or see any static electricity spark. If it still doesn't work, please email me your order number and where you ordered it, and I will verify the order and send you a replacement. Taping the device with electric tape will help protect it from static shock. Also I recommend storing and transporting it in the anti-static bag it comes in. Lastly, surfaces where static is most prevalent are plastic tables and on carpet, so beware when working on these surfaces and avoid them if possible. Sorry it doesn't have a case on it. :(.
ReplyDeleteNote that my email is printed on the label the device came in, and it's at the top of this web page too.
ReplyDeletehello,
ReplyDeleteI got your chip today from amazon and when i plugged it in it would drag my mouse to the bottom right corner. That was perfect for keeping my computer unlocked. About an hour later a notification popped up saying unrecognized device... It would not allow me to press the scroll lock 5 times with word or anything open and i tried on all 5 usb ports with no success. I read after i bought it that it may not work on usb 3.0 ports and im pretty sure all mine are 3.0... how do i get it working again? it seems like it doesent want to install it as a mouse or keyboard anymore... the green light stays on solid, and the red light flashes 3 times very quickly endlessly. Please help. Thanks -Dan
Hi Dan, sometimes they fail for one reason or another. Sometimes it's due to static electricity damaging the chip. The best I can say in this case is to tape it up next time with electrical tape to minimize the chance of damage to it. Meanwhile, shoot me an email (my email is at the top of this article) with your order number, and I'll verify the number and send you a replacement one. Sorry the device failed on you. :( That stinks.
DeleteHello.. this is really interesting product. Does this device also support auto periodic mouse clicks while the mouse move mode is running? I'm asking because my company's customized RemoteDesktopServer gateway application also checks whether the mouse is appropriately clicked.
ReplyDeleteHi Gunis, the product does not currently support mouse clicks or pressing the Enter key, for fear that this could be destructive on someone's computer. Pressing Enter, for instance, can confirm a delete, and clicking the mouse could drag and move files and folders, making them lost forever.
DeleteAlso, to be clear, my goal in life in general is to make people more productive, good, honest citizens who contribute to society. See all the quotes down the right-hand side of my website here, for instance. I feel very strongly about those things. Here are 3 use cases and how I feel about each:
1) Many people using this device use it to help them be more productive by not having to type in their password all the time because their idiotic hyper-controlling employers set their screensaver to come on every 3 minutes. Others use it to help them be more productive by keeping their screens awake while giving presentations. These are clearly good and upright uses of the product. I call them "white-listed" usages. They are good.
2) More grey-area usage examples include using the product to look like you're working, when you're not, so you can study programming for a couple hrs. a day to eventually get a new job, or do some other type of useful-to-society education, while still getting paid for some hourly online job today, that you're not actually completing, but it looks like you are because your mouse is moving by my device. I call this grey because it is dishonest and the user is lying to their employer, but the user is genuinely trying to become more useful in life by studying some new trade or skill during this time. I don't condone it, but hypothetically, I wouldn't actively seek to stop it either. The user must decide how to best become useful to society in whatever situation they may find themselves. They must account for their own actions. Another gray-area usage which is even closer to the white side of the spectrum ***for sure*** is auto-clicking through video trainings or other online trainings which you already know, have already studied, but must repeat again for some assine reason. Heck, for a smart individual just trying to use their time wisely, so long as they review the material themselves and hold themselves accountable, I'd even call this a "white-listed" usage. It can help you be more-productive to society.
3) Black-listed usages, which I do not condone, and which I am strongly opposed to, include lazy flat-out lying to your employer to get paid for work you aren't completing. Here, people are getting paid for some hourly online job and they deceive their employer by using my device to look like they are working. The employer pays them while they are sleeping, playing, or otherwise doing nothing of value to society. This usage of my product disgusts me. It makes me angry. I didn't leave the bureaucratic crap-hole of government employment to be more useful to society just so I could help others be *less* useful to society! I don't support this usage. I'd rather go out of business than explicitly help people do this. I'd rather quit making the device altogether than make this its primary usage.
I fear that when one asks me to make this device click, they want it for a black-listed category 3 usage. I'm not interested in helping with that. But, the grey/white usage I mention at the end of category 2 also requires clicking, which currently I do not support in the device, but could.
What is your use-case?
First of all, thanks for the quick reply. Your sincere and detailed long answer, which I never thought of, helped me to understand the philosophy of the product you developed.
DeleteI am a backend-server developer(Spring Framework stuff). The recent COVID-19 pandemic forces my company to work at home for a period of time.
The problem is that our company is mistaken for improving security rather than work efficiency as the most important value, and they are forcing me to work on a very restricted and resource-limited slow Windows based virtual desktop.
I think you will understand how stressful it is when developers encounter an environment where various restrictions are imposed, including build speed.
So rather than arguing with the company to solve this problem, I decided to overcome this situation in a quieter, more elegant way.
My solution is that build and test code work from the IntelliJ on my MacBook, and access the remote virtual desktop connected to the company intranet only for push codes to the private Git repository.
However, as mentioned earlier, our company wants to make sure that developers even use the mouse and keyboard practically / continuously inside the sandbox.
During working hours on my MacBook, I needed a special equipment to prove 'I'm working! as you're expected!'.
At first, I thought of implementing my own mouse/keyboard HID emulation device using DigiSpark board as like you use.
After a bit of googling, I eventually found that you had already developed and selling this cool device that I was looking for exactly.
Instead of developing similar myself, I wanted to improve my productivity by properly using the cool product you are selling, so I left an enquiry about additional features.
I'm not sure if my request could be reflected, but just if it could reach you,
It is only necessary to add a feature that generates a very short Single-click immediately after the mouse moves according to a preset mode, not a double-click of the mouse.
Lastly, thank you again for the answer you left behind in a long text.
Regards
First of all, thanks for the quick reply. Your sincere and detailed long answer, which I never thought of, helped me to understand the philosophy of the product you developed.
ReplyDeleteI am a backend-server developer(Spring Framework stuff). The recent COVID-19 pandemic forces my company to work at home for a period of time.
The problem is that our company is mistaken for improving security rather than work efficiency as the most important value, and they are forcing me to work on a very restricted and resource-limited slow Windows based virtual desktop.
I think you will understand how stressful it is when developers encounter an environment where various restrictions are imposed, including build speed.
So rather than arguing with the company to solve this problem, I decided to overcome this situation in a quieter, more elegant way.
My solution is that build and test code work from the IntelliJ on my MacBook, and access the remote virtual desktop connected to the company intranet only for push codes to the private Git repository.
However, as mentioned earlier, our company wants to make sure that developers even use the mouse and keyboard practically / continuously inside the sandbox.
During working hours on my MacBook, I needed a special equipment to prove 'I'm working! as you're expected!'.
At first, I thought of implementing my own mouse/keyboard HID emulation device using DigiSpark board as like you use.
After a bit of googling, I eventually found that you had already developed and selling this cool device that I was looking for exactly.
Instead of developing similar myself, I wanted to improve my productivity by properly using the cool product you are selling, so I left an enquiry about additional features.
I'm not sure if my request could be reflected, but just if it could reach you,
It is only necessary to add a feature that generates a very short Single-click immediately after the mouse moves according to a preset mode, not a double-click of the mouse.
Lastly, thank you again for the answer you left behind in a long text.
Regards
Gunis, thanks for the response. I *definitely* support your use-case!
Delete> I think you will understand how stressful it is when developers encounter an environment where various restrictions are imposed, including build speed.
Yes, yes, YES I understand! Oh the horrible memories.
If you like, I can make you something custom for $50 or send you on the journey to create your own, by giving you some getting started links. Which would you prefer? If you prefer me to make it, please reply here with *exactly* what you need it to do. Ex: move mouse left a tiny bit, then immediately back right, press left mouse button, hold it for 250ms, release. Wait 1 minute. Repeat.
It has been working very well for months but recently stopped and now flashes red quickly, in bursts. I have tried different computers, hubs, going into word and pressing scroll lock 5x but nothing shows up for programming. Is there any way to troubleshoot or fix this?
ReplyDeleteSorry it's broken. :( See I've been using the device happily for a month now, but suddenly it stopped working. What do I do?
DeleteSee also: What do the LEDs mean? Red, green?
DeleteThis device has been working very well for me for several months, but it now shows as USB Device not recognized. I would like to purchase a replacement... but, it is out of stock on eBay and Amazon. Will you be making more available in the near future?
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, I won't be making any more at this time. I am swamped with my main job, programming the Cruise Origin, and family life. I need to upgrade the hardware as well, to make it more reliable, and just haven't had time yet, unfortunately.
DeleteI am considering making the source code available to people who sponsor me on GitHub, however. Please leave comments at the preceding link if you have an opinion about that or would like the source code.
Delete