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3Dconnexion Devices are the Must-Have Peripheral of 2007
This entry was posted on 1/30/2007 10:43 AM and is filed under uncategorized.
The 3Dconnexion line of 3D navigational devices are, in my humble opinion, the must-have item for CAD and GIS geeks in 2007. I've been using the SpacePilot (US retail $299) for about two months. I unplugged it on purpose yesterday just to see my reaction, and I went into a serious case of 3D navigation angst.
If you work in 3D CAD, or use Google Earth, you owe it to yourself to get either the high-end, programmable SpacePilot, the SpaceNavigator ($99), or the road-ready SpaceTraveler ($59). Go for a joy ride once in Google Earth and you'll wonder how you ever got along without the device. You can even use it to view 2D graphic images with unusual maneuverability, thanks to the utility program that comes with the device.
3Dconnexion is a wholly owned subsidiary of Logitech, a company that has been a faithful supplier to CAD users of high-quality pointing devices and keyboards for years. My circa 1997 Logitech trackball is still as good as the day I bought it, although it could use a bath.
I mention all this because today 3Dconnexion announced compatibility of its devices with Windows Vista. A public beta of their device drivers are downloadable at http://www.3dconnexion.com/support; 3Dconnexion expects to release a final version next month.
I may be bullish on 3Dconnexion devices, but I recommend patience regarding Windows Vista. When people ask, I say don't upgrade until your key applications give you a reason, or until you buy a new computer. But if you have Windows Vista, with all its fancy 3D presentations, a 3Dconnexion device would be a delight.
