Google, 3Dconnexion Partner for 3D Navigation

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3Dconnexion, a Logitech company, unveils the SpaceNavigator, a three-dimensional navigation device that offers 3D designers and enthusiasts intuitive and powerful 3D navigation control. Compatible with Google Earth and Google SketchUp, as well as with today's most popular 3D design applications, the SpaceNavigator gives people the ability to move naturally and fluidly in 3D environments - without making repetitive mouse movements or having to type multiple keyboard commands. Logitech and Google worked together to develop native support for the SpaceNavigator with Google Earth.

The SpaceNavigator has six optical sensors that continuously communicate multiple threads of navigation data to 3D applications. This technology enables people to fly through three-dimensional worlds without stopping to use the keyboard or mouse to change directions. A companion to the mouse, and held in the alternate hand, the SpaceNavigator significantly reduces the number of times people need to switch tools to manipulate 3D imagery, increasing productivity. In addition, people can use the SpaceNavigator to simultaneously pan, zoom and rotate 3D objects, which is not possible with a mouse and keyboard alone. People who use multiple 3D applications can appreciate how SpaceNavigator unifies the unique navigation systems of each application into a single easy-to-use device.

The small footprint of the heavy steel base holds the SpaceNavigator to the desktop and supports a controller cap that is designed to flex in all directions. When the cap is moved, the optical sensors capture a continuous stream of navigation information that is sent to the running application to control the 3D object or environment. The cap can be pushed, pulled, tilted, or spun a fraction of an inch in any direction to activate the SpaceNavigator's optical sensors. A firm push on the cap activates a quick movement, while a more gentle push results in slower movement. The SpaceNavigator's two programmable buttons, located at the three o'clock and nine o'clock positions, allow people to customize their workflow and reduce movement as the hand switches among the SpaceNavigator, mouse and keyboard.

The SpaceNavigator features a new 3Dconnexion Configuration Wizard to simplify speed adjustment and other settings. It uses animations and imagery to demonstrate how to use and configure settings for the device. The last panel of the Configuration Wizard offers demonstration applications so users can immediately begin using the device. The SpaceNavigator is compatible with Windows XP, 32-bit and 64-bit.

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