This Academic edition has the same features and capabilities of the retail version, and is shipped to you in a factory sealed retail box. However, this version is able to be sold below the retail price because of an educational discount.
SpaceExplorer, offers effortless navigation for more than 100 of today's most powerful 3D design and visualization applications.
High-end performance. Mid-range price.
Simply push, pull, tilt or twist the SpaceExplorer's controller cap to simultaneously pan, zoom and rotate 3D objects and environments. SpaceExplorer features an array of easy-to-reach function keys labeled and pre-programmed with commands from leading design applications. Keys automatically map as you move between applications for unified navigation.
50% fewer mouse clicks. 30% greater productivity.
Gone are the days when 3D navigation meant endless mouse clicks to move around an object or to fly through space and remembering how to change views and control objects within the X, Y, Z axes...one tedious step at a time. Plus, it is no longer necessary to remember different application's unique commands for manipulating 3D objects or scenes.
Using SpaceExplorer together with a mouse engages both your hands in a natural, intuitive work style. One hand drives the SpaceExplorer, positioning your model, then rotating, panning and zooming in one single, fluid motion. Your mouse hand can simultaneously edit the model or select menu items.
The SpaceExplorer button array includes two numbered buttons for programmability of the user's favorite application commands, plus keys for Speed, Views, 2D only, Fit, Control Panel and keyboard modifiers. This enables you to master any supported 3D application without having to leave the device to reach for the keyboard.
The new SpaceExplorer 3D navigation device:
Boosts productivity by over 30%, while reducing mouse usage by 50%
Automatically maps functions on keys as you change applications
Enables no-look access to modifier keys on device
Provides instant positioning of models and scenes with Fit and View keys
Reduces fatigue with its ergonomic design and soft, sculpted palm rest
Preconfigured. Easy to customize.
SpaceExplorer's software automatically recognizes the programs already loaded on your computer-such as Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks, Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire, Solid Edge, UGS NX, and a host of other CAD and DCC applications-and installs default configurations that predefine the functions assigned to programmable buttons.
Earn your wings in no time at all.
3Dconnexion's Configuration Wizard is an interactive tool that uses animation and imagery to guide you through controller cap movement and configuring your preferences. The Configuration Wizard also provides demonstration applications so you can practice or start using the device right away.
Plus, your 3DxSoftware will never be out of date, because 3Dconnexion's Update Wizard keeps you up-to-date on the latest OS and application versions and new features.
Navigation Features
Two Handed Power
SpaceExplorer is used together with a traditional mouse. One hand engages SpaceExplorer to position the model and access important application commands while your other hand simultaneously uses the traditional mouse to edit the model or select menu items. This balanced and cooperative work style results in productivity gains of more than 20% and up to 50% fewer mouse clicks for a more comfortable working experience and reduced risk of RSI.
QuickView Navigation Keys
Extend the power of the controller cap by providing one-touch access to four standard views enabling you to instantly view models from the top, front, left and right for improved error detection, design review and design presentation.
Navigation Settings Keys
During the course of developing 3D models, designers may want to personalize how the controller cap works by adjusting the speed or restricting navigation to certain axis. For example, when creating 2D sketches of 3D profiles, it is useful to be able to pan and zoom but not rotate the view.
Rotation key
By turning rotation off, users can focus on smooth, simultaneous pan-and-zoom navigation only. This is ideal for work modes such as sketching or for quickly inspecting standard views of your model.
Speed Key
Adjusting the SpaceExplorer navigation speed, changes the amount of force or torque that needs to be applied to the controller to move a model or environment. Lower the speed for detailed, close-up work and increase the speed for design reviews and presentations.
Performance Features
Intelligent Function Keys
Each application environment, such as sketch, part or assembly has its own set of tools and processes. SpaceExplorer automatically recognizes the active application and environment and assigns 2 relevant application commands to its Intelligent Function Keys.
This seamless process ensures the right tools are available at the right time and as there’s no need to use the standard mouse or keyboard to select the commands, users experience a significantly streamlined workflow.
Advanced Wrist Rest Design
The soft coated, sculpted wrist rest guides the hand into a natural, comfortable position, while the symmetrical design means SpaceExplorer is equally suitable for left or right handed users.
Keyboard Modifiers
The convenient Ctrl, Shift, Alt and Esc keys allow users to simultaneously navigate their 3D model while accessing special application functionality or editing capabilities. This significantly reduces the need to move the hand from SpaceExplorer to the keyboard, resulting in a more optimized workflow.