With the proliferation of multi core processors, many home computers are capable of running powerful 3D programs such as Google Earth, NASA World Wind, Blender, Maya, Google SketchUp and others. Using a regular mouse with these programs requires additional inputs either with the keyboard or interfacing with on screen commands. 3DConnexion , a Logitech subsidiary, have released a portable version of their SpaceNavigator mouse line. The SpaceNavigator for Notebooks weighs in at a little over ½ pound and is portable enough to be easily packed in a laptop bag. What makes this 3D mouse different from other mice, is that it allows you to work in the X,Y and Z planes, allowing simplified navigation in a 3D environment.

So, if you are a 3D designer or an enthusiast, let’s see if the SpaceNavigator for Notebooks is the right mouse for the job. Let’s get started …….

SpaceNavigator for Notebooks

Reviewed by: Tomas Ratas

Sponsor: Logitech /3DConnexion

Tech Specs,Features or the Basic Info:

SpaceNavigator for Notebooks

 Why Choose SpaceNavigator?
 
-A precision 3D mouse you can take with you
-Smaller footprint, lighter weight for use anywhere
-New cap design for more comfort and more natural interaction
-Two-button layout simplifies control
-Travel case for effortless transport

Now a precision 3D mouse you can take with you!

Compact and ultra-light, SpaceNavigator for Notebooks is the perfect travel companion for 3D designers and enthusiasts.

3D portability

Designed for mobile professionals and enthusiasts, the compact SpaceNavigator for Notebooks is only half the weight of its desktop counterpart. A small footprint makes it easy to use-even on airline trays-and a travel case makes transport effortless.

New, improved design

A new cap design increases comfort while making interactions with your 3D world more natural and immersive. The two-button layout simplifies control.

Universal compatibility

SpaceNavigator for Notebooks works with all your favorite 3D applications on Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, or UNIX. Power dynamic 3D presentations with Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader. Build highly detailed models in CAD applications such as Autodesk Inventor or SolidWorks. Explore rich 3D scenes or worlds in Second Life, Autodesk 3ds Max, Autodesk Maya, Google Earth, NASA World Wind, or Microsoft Virtual Earth.

Specifications:

-Advanced 6 degrees-of-freedom optical sensor
-Speed adjustable to preference
-2 programmable function keys
-Weight: .55 lb.
-Length: 2.5 in.
-Height: 1.7 in.
-Width: 2.5 in.
-2-year warranty

System Requirements

Windows:
-Intel Pentium 4/III or AMD/Athlon processor based system
-140 Megabytes free disk space for driver and plug-in installation
-USB 1.1 or 2.0
-Windows Vista 32-bit or 64-bit
-Windows XP SP2, x86 or x64
-Windows 2000 SP4

Macintosh
-Dual-Core or Core Duo processor based system, 512MB RAM
or 1Ghz G4 or higher, 512MB RAM
-10 MB available hard disk space for driver and plug-in installation
-USB 1.1 or 2.0
-Mac OS X 10.4.6 or later

Linux
-Linux (Redhat Enterprise Linux WS 3, SuSE 9.0 or greater) 

Price: $129.00 US