Trying to learn

Questions and answers about 3Dconnexion devices on macOS.

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Br22
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Joined: Wed Jan 08, 2025 1:33 pm

Trying to learn

Post by Br22 »

I expected there to be a learning curve to this Spacemouse Pro, but I'm finding it really difficult to manage. I keep going back to my 2 button mouse to get work done in Fusion 360. I see that there's a "Manual" in the app, but I find this "manual" really insufficient. Is there any place to get more tutoring on what the buttons are for and how to use them?

Also the knob is really hard for me to manage. When I zoom it tends to tumble, and my project bounces all over the screen when I move in any direction. How long does it take to develop a touch to control this thing?
FridJane
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Joined: Fri Nov 29, 2024 12:18 pm

Re: Trying to learn

Post by FridJane »

With consistent use, most users develop proficiency in 1–2 weeks. Start slow and gradually integrate it into your workflow.
Br22
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Re: Trying to learn

Post by Br22 »

Thank you for taking the time to reply. I wrote to 3D Connexion and got some helpful replies from their tech support. I have learned that there are instructional videos on YouTube and a (still somewhat spare) PDF instruction booklet that are not mentioned anywhere in the materials that came with the 3D Mouse Pro. I'm using it on a Macintosh and the "Home" app lists features without any real instruction on how to use them.

Additionally I'm finding erratic behavior in the controls. If I press the "R" button for a right view, the model zooms to the front. But slowly pushing it away causes it to suddenly leap a great distance sometimes, and other times it disappears completely. I've been unable to see any change effected by the Speed setting in axis controls. And the Buttons 1, 2, 3, and 4 open sequential functions in the Fusion app that are not programmed into the Properties, and the functions programmed into Properties for the four Buttons are not honored.

I understand the mouse was only for Windows in the beginning, and am wondering if the Macintosh implementation is lacking.
skmiec
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Re: Trying to learn

Post by skmiec »

Hi Br22

Which version of macOS do you use and what kind of Macintosh, does it use apple silicone processor or intel?
Br22
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Re: Trying to learn

Post by Br22 »

I'm running a 2019 Intel iMac with MacOS Sonoma, 14.7.
Br22
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Re: Trying to learn

Post by Br22 »

One comment I will make in case anyone else struggles in the beginning ... you will be well-served by slowing down all actions of the axes. It's much easier for a novice to control if it doesn't go to Mars and back with every tender touch. 3Dconnexion should deliver the device configured for slower speeds for new users.

Another point that is obvious to any regular user but not to the beginner (this beginner) is that the "Properties" control settings only for the app that's selected in the "Configure" drop down menu. My "Configure" was set to "Any Application" because the Manual said this was recommended. I thought that meant changes I made would work with "any application". But that's not so. My configurations only began to work after I set the Configure drop down to "Fusion 360".

This is what they say:
Use "Any Application" Setting:
Sets the button to the same mapping as defined in the "Any Application" configuration. Application that have advanced support for 3D Mouse buttons should use this mapping.
jwick
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Re: Trying to learn

Post by jwick »

Br22 wrote: Thu Jan 16, 2025 5:44 pm This is what they say:
Use "Any Application" Setting:
Sets the button to the same mapping as defined in the "Any Application" configuration. Application that have advanced support for 3D Mouse buttons should use this mapping.
We could say that better... Maybe "all the other applications" :).
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