From: dalecohn@cloud9.net (dale cohn)
Subject: PROD: Cheap Spaceball 6 degree input device
Date: 27 Apr 1997 21:54:18 -0400
Message-ID: <5k100a$158@cloud9.net>
Organization: Cloud 9 Internet, White Plains, NY, USA



I was at the Trenton Computer Fest and Crazy Bob's of Massachusetts
was blowing out an old version of the Spaceball Orb.  This device is a
full 6 degree of freedom input joystick device, serial interface.
Similar to the more professional models (but much cheaper), it's a
nice VR device and at the price, well worth ripping apart and making
something a bit more controllable.  The handheld controller isn't bad,
but not as good as a firmly mounted unit.  These old ones use a odd
splayed out button setup, which is why they were replaced.  It's
usuable, but the 5th and 6th buttons require a bit of a thumb stretch.

The web site for Crazy Bob's is http://www.crazybob.com or
800-410-BOBS At the fest, they told me they had 4000 of these, and
they were going for $10 each.  Online, they are priced at $29, but if
you call and tell them you saw it cheaper, maybe they'll give you a
deal.  Buy a few and save them :) The new version ones cost $99 in
retail stores, $79 with a $20 rebate.

They package software with it, or you can get it online at
http://www.spacetec.com
Drivers seem to be available for every make of computer, and it _is_
serial, after all.

I have no affiliation with any of these companies, I'm just another VR
hacker, who likes finding deals... 
 

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