The Optical Finger Navigation (OFN) Module can add a unique human interface component to your Propeller project. OFN Modules are quickly becoming popular as user input devices in many smart phones as a replacement for trackballs, which are subject to mechanical wear and tear.

OFN technology is very similar to the technology used in optical mice, and movement across the sensor can be read by any microcontroller using I²C communication.

Features and specifications:

• Built-in center select button
• Onboard red LED which lights when finger movement is detected
• Easy I²C communication interface with virtually any microcontroller
• Onboard voltage regulator conditions I/O to 3 V max for compatibility with 3.3 V devices even when 5.5 V is supplied to Vdd
• User-selectable 500 to 1000 counts per inch (cpi) resolution
• User-definable 0 or 90° module orientation
• Breadboard-friendly package with 0.1" pin spacing
• Power requirements: 3.3-5.5 VDC; 25 mA active, 1 mA standby
• Communication: Two-Wire Serial I2C (400 kHz)
• Dimensions: 1.0 x 1.0 x 0.55 in (25.4 x 25.4 x 13.97 mm)
• Operating temp range: 32 to 158 °F (0 to 70 °C)