>>on 04-05-2002 9:32, Sushi at Sushi_at_ragingbull.com wrote:
>>
>> One of the neatest that I used, was a trackball system.
>
>On 5/5/02 @ 4:58 PM, Robert Benschop wrote:
>
>I did try a trackball, hated it and didn't alleviate the
>RSI symptoms at the time.
Yeah, I've tried quite a few different track balls. IMHO, most leave a
lot to be desired. You mention RSI. So true. Many have to much
curvature and too light, IMHO.
Like I mentioned in an earlier message, I used one that was built into a
desk, about the size of a volleyball, was easy to move, but yet was heavy.
It was the only one that I've every enjoyed using. Back then it cost
1000's, believe it or not. I might have been a little off on the surface
area. I mentioned 3", but now measuring it is closer to 5-6 inches
across -- the exposed area that you could move. It was slighly curved,
and easily moved with your fingers.
Someone mentioned a game console trackball. While they are nice, the one
that I am talking about was much different in style and feel.
And to spin the thing. We had three monitors side by side in a virtual
desktop. This was back in the 70's mind you. And you could spin right
across all three with one throw!
We also had a mouse and tablet system. It was not optical or mechanical.
Sort of like a smart pen system. The tablet had the commands labled on
it in boxes. The mouse was a three button job, with a clear cross hair
for aiming at the commands. Really cool at the time.
Getting back to the Newt, one thing that I like about the Newt is the way
the interface behaves/interacts with the user. After using the Palm
Pilot and Pocket PC interface, amoung other portable ones, the Newt is
just so integrated with the user. And it is scalable.
One thing about Apple, is that when it comes to ergonomics and
integration with the user, they usually get it right. There is an
inherent desire to make the device as one that assists or enables the
user.
Still waiting for the day that Apple re-enters the market. I know don't
hold my breath! But I am every optomistic. Especially after seeing the
OQO website. A device like that running Pen X would sure be nice.
Sushi
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