Feature Request: Native WOMBAT (ADB-to-USB) Support for Real ADB Keyboards/Mice #285
Description
Basilisk II currently emulates ADB input via USB HID, but does not recognize real ADB devices when connected through a WOMBAT converter. Adding native WOMBAT support would allow Basilisk II to:
Directly interface with original ADB keyboards/mice (e.g., Apple Extended Keyboard II, Macintosh Plus keyboard).
Preserve the authentic tactile feel and key response of vintage Mac peripherals.
Enable ADB-specific features (e.g., power key, adjustable key repeat rates, and device-specific quirks).
Why This Matters:
Many retro computing enthusiasts (including Raspberry Pi-based Mac replica builders) use real ADB hardware for an authentic experience. While WOMBAT converts ADB to USB HID, Basilisk II could detect and prioritize ADB devices when present, offering:
Seamless plug-and-play for ADB peripherals.
Better compatibility with niche ADB devices (e.g., trackballs, graphics tablets).
A bridge between modern emulation and vintage hardware, aligning with Basilisk II’s goal of preserving classic Mac environments.
Proposed Implementation:
Detect WOMBAT devices via USB VID/PID (e.g., 1209:0001 for shwombat).
Bypass standard USB HID handling for these devices, instead parsing raw ADB protocols.
Map ADB scancodes directly to Mac OS keycodes (similar to how Mini vMac handles ADB in some ports).
Add a config toggle:adb_device /dev/hidrawX # Linux
adb_device COMX # Windows
Use Cases:
Raspberry Pi-based "Macintosh Classic" replicas using real ADB keyboards.
Retro battlestations with original Mac peripherals.
Museum/educational setups where tactile authenticity matters.
References: