Instructions for the Labtec Spaceball 4000

Many 3-D design applications support the Spaceball 4000.

Developed by SpaceTek in 1998 and later acquired by Labtec, the Spaceball 4000 was a trackball-based input device for 3-D design and visualization professionals. As of 2011, the Spaceball 4000 is a legacy device supported by Freemont, California, peripheral manufacturer 3DConnexions. Hewlett-Packard released a similar trackball mouse, the Compaq Spaceball 4000, in 2004. Whether you work in entertainment or industrial design, the Labtec Spaceball 4000 is still compatible with most professional applications.

Things You'll Need

• Spaceball 4000 input device
• Supported software application
• System drivers

Instructions

Windows Installation

1. Download "3dxSoftware" drivers from the 3DConnexions website. Select "Spaceball 4000" under the "Products" dropdown menu and check the "Also show archived software" box when searching. Drivers for operating systems other than Windows are also available.

2. Download and install any application-specific plug-ins---for example, AutoCAD, 3ds or Maya.

3. Click on the "Start" menu and then "Control Panels." Open the "3DConnexion Control Panel."

4. Click the "Calibrate" button to reset device settings and close the control panel.

General Operation

1. Convert the wrist pad for either left- or right-hand operation.

2. Move, view and manipulate 3-D models and cameras in major CAD/CAM applications using the central trackball. The Spaceball 4000's ball is reduced in size over previous versions and coated for improved grip.

3. Click three "rapid-action" thumb buttons or nine finger buttons with minimal movement.

4. Use the 3dxSoftware to customize 12 additional function buttons. Map 22 custom functions according to software requirements, with one button reserved as a "Shift" key.

Tips & Warnings

• While not a comprehensive list, check Spaceball's compatibility with major design applications at 3DConnexions.

• Active support for the Spaceball 4000 was discontinued in 2006---recent design applications may not be supported.

References

• Ideo: Labtec Spaceball 4000
• Mindflux: Spaceball 4000 FLX
• 3Dconnexion: Windows Installation
• 3Dconnexion: Download Drivers

Resources

• 3Dconnexion: Supported Application List
• 3Dconnexion: 3dxSoftware Release Notes
• Hewlett Packard: Spaceball 4000 Support
• Hewlett Packard: Spaceball 4000 Overview