Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014)

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by georgewsinger on Friday April 01, 2022 @03:13PM (#30882152)

I've gotten a lot of use out of using a sim-racing shifter (specifically Thrustmaster THA8) as an input device in Linux: https://photos.app.goo.gl/DksPS2ijo9aPCUi5A

These shifters are normally designed for use in sim-racing/gaming, but I haven't sim raced a single time in my life. The shifts can be reconfigured for various actions, and I use it for things like switching workspaces or various emacs bindings.

It's extremely mechanically satisfying to use.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by leobg on Friday April 01, 2022 @03:45PM (#30882492)

That makes me laugh. To imagine how you’re sitting there at your PC switching gears. My grandma would be totally confused, haha.

But I like the idea. Would also be interested to know how you’re using it!

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by egypturnash on Friday April 01, 2022 @06:07PM (#30883819)

Oh god now I kinda want this. I am saved by the fact that I can't think of a way to use this that fits into what I do but I want this.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by ghotli on Friday April 01, 2022 @05:18PM (#30883416)

Between this and the Simula One, I basically desire to emulate your entire setup. Nicely done

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by georgewsinger on Saturday April 02, 2022 @01:08PM (#30889812)

Working on both =]

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by panda88888 on Friday April 01, 2022 @03:22PM (#30882239)

This looks really interesting. Could you provide more details on your setup?

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by georgewsinger on Friday April 01, 2022 @03:36PM (#30882393)

I use qjoypad (https://github.com/panzi/qjoypad) to configure each shift to a single number press. So for example shifting into 2nd gear sends a single "2" key press to Linux.

After that, I usual xbindkeys & emacs to configure more complex bindings. So for example "WindowsKey + n" is configured to go into workspace n. Or "CapsLock + 8" is binded to close the current tab I'm on.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by loa_in_ on Saturday April 02, 2022 @08:57AM (#30887883)

You could improve on this using F13-F24 as they're pretty much universally supported by X, SDL, etc.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by georgewsinger on Saturday April 02, 2022 @01:07PM (#30889809)

Whoa. Interesting idea!

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by panda88888 on Saturday April 02, 2022 @12:54AM (#30885918)

Add a foot pedal as the clutch to add modifier key to the gear shift!

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by fleaaa on Saturday April 02, 2022 @09:08AM (#30887966)

Angrily shifting gears to go build after a long session seems a nice idea!

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by notRobot on Friday April 01, 2022 @03:56PM (#30882603)

Whoa. I guess I now know what to save up for for my birthday.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by lelag on Saturday April 02, 2022 @03:05AM (#30886388)

What a brillant idea... I have sim-racing gear amassing dust in the garage, you make me want to try it out...

I probably won't but only because the Logitech shifter I have requires to be plugged in to the whole steering wheel assembly which would be bulky to have around the desk...

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by panda88888 on Monday April 04, 2022 @03:18PM (#30910857)

How about mounting the steering wheel on the floor and use it as feet controllers via rotation. Turn right to scroll down, left to scroll up, and turn more to scroll faster!

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by unemphysbro on Friday April 01, 2022 @03:41PM (#30882434)

oh damn...you also need a big red button to kick things into turbo/overdrive for the serious hacking

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by panda88888 on Monday April 04, 2022 @03:18PM (#30910864)

or use it as the build/test button!

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by mhh__ on Friday April 01, 2022 @10:08PM (#30885276)

> mechanically satisfying

Magnetic shifters with a direct drive wheel are positively orgasmic then.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by alexhwoods on Friday April 01, 2022 @08:02PM (#30884588)

That is a very interesting idea my friend.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Using foot pedals for modifier keys in Linux (2014) by esho on Friday April 01, 2022 @09:22PM (#30885046)

Does it come with a clutch pedal?

[ Parent | on HN ]