The SpaceNavigator is used in addition to a mouse or laptop trackpad. It is not really a game controller, although it can be used with some games. The main use for SpaceNavigator is in 3D tools like Maya and SketchUp.
How Do You Use the SpaceNavigator?
Like the full sized SpaceNavigator, the SpaceNavigator for Notebooks provides two user-defined buttons. They can be used for pre-defined SpaceNavigator functions, key combinations, or more elaborate user-defined macros.
In Google Earth, you can use the SpaceNavigator like a joystick to fly through space. In SketchUp, you can use the the controller to manipulate 3D objects instead of having to toggle between modes with the keyboard. For more on SpaceNavigator use in SketchUp and Google Earth, read the Review of the SpaceNavigator PE.
System Requirements
- Windows XP or Vista
- Mac OSX 10.4.6 and above
- Linux (Redhat Enterprise Linux WS 3, SuSE 9.0 and above)
- USB port
I tested the SpaceNavigator on a MacBook Pro, an XP laptop, and a desktop running Vista. All performed equally well. The driver controllers are easy to install and designed to reduce user frustration. You are shown a quick tutorial on how to use the SpaceNavigator as you finish the installation and set your preferences.
Size
Image Courtesy 3Dconnexion
It's also deceptively heavy for its size and adds an extra .55lbs of weight. That's still an improvement over the SpaceNavigator PE/SE, which is nearly twice as heavy and comes with no case.
Comfort
The cap on the SpaceNavigator for Notebooks has been redesigned, and it works better than that for the standard sized SpaceNavigator. It's easier to move, and there's a very helpful arrow that gives an easy visual check to make sure the controller is correctly oriented.
My problem with comfort comes with the decrease in size. The standard sized SpaceNavigator has a large, heavy base that keeps the device firmly planted on your desk. Manipulating the cap does not move the entire controller.
The notebook version had to give up some of that weight and width for portability, so I found that I had to wrap my lower fingers around the base to keep everything in place. While it wasn't totally uncomfortable, it may not have been the most ergonomic solution.
However, a larger base would increase the footprint too much for use in narrow spaces.
Who Should Buy This?
Even non professionals who regularly use Google Earth, Second Life, SketchUp, or any of the other supported applications may enjoy having this level of control over 3D objects and space.
Who Should Avoid This?
If you can possibly make due with the SpaceNavigator PE, that's the direction to go. It's half the price and easier to use overall. There's a reason people don't put tiny travel mice on their desktop computers.
The Bottom Line
However, the SpaceNavigator for Notebooks does have to make compromises in size and weight that make it less appealing as your primary 3D controller. At a suggested retail price of $129, the SpaceNavigator for Notebooks may also be out of the price range for the casual user.
As is customary for product reviews, I was sent a demo item which was returned to the manufacturer.
