MouseMover

thingiverse

This is a MouseMover designed to periodically move your mouse to prevent your computer from going into sleep mode. I couldn't find any alternative that met my needs, so I created something completely standalone from the target machine. This means no software installation or USB plug-ins were required. The MouseMover uses a 28BYJ-48 stepper and driver, which are easily found on Amazon, eBay, and other online marketplaces for just a couple of dollars. I used an Arduino Pro Mini (5-volt version) that I had available but others would work as well. The unit is powered by a USB power adapter/charger, but any 5VDC power supply capable of sourcing 250mA will suffice. To assemble the MouseMover, you'll need two M4 x 5mm screws to mount the stepper and four M4 x 12mm (or longer) screws to put the pieces together. I opted not to include board mounts for the circuit boards, instead using heavy-duty double-sided tape to stick them to the underside of the box. I've included the Arduino sketch that I'm using, which can be easily modified to change delays and rotation distances for each move. Assembly is straightforward: 1. Mount the motor in the base. 2. Press the rotary table onto the motor shaft; it's keyed to fit the flats on the motor shaft, so make sure it's fully seated. 3. Place the spacer between the base and top cradle. 4. Put the top cradle on and secure everything with four M4 x 12mm screws. 5. Wire everything up according to the wiring diagram. 6. Plug it in and start using your MouseMover!