lkstaack

Please help me select a function control knob for my carputer. My needs for this knob are modest; it must be capable of controlling volume as well as selecting applications, tracks, etc. Also, since real estate is at a premium on my BMWs center consol, small size is a plus. My searches indicate that most forum members use one of these knobs:

-Griffin PowerMate: PowerMate
-Logitech NuLOOQ: NuLOOQ
-3DConnexion SpaceNavigator: SpaceNavigator
-MP3car Haptic Encoder: Encoder

As far as I can tell the PowerMate and NuLOOQ are very similar. I think that they will work with any Front End because their Windows drivers allow key stroke replication. The more technical among us have used Girder to customize knob functions for specific Front Ends. I don’t see much difference between them…is there?

SpaceNavigator rotates, tilts and travels up and down. It does not use stroke replication drivers; 3DConnexion has developed drivers for Google Earth and works with other companies to develop drivers. A few enterprising carputer buffs are developing their own drivers, but I do not believe them ready for prime time. 3DConnexion also has the SpaceTraveler that seems to be smaller than all other knobs.

The Haptic Encoder seems to have the most potential of all the knobs, but lacks a user-level driver and support from any current Front End.

Anyway, lots of knobs to choose, but which one should a N00b select?

Enforcer

That title is a bit to ghey for my taste.

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KaOsTiK

i think the SN looks the best when retrofitted in your console.

it's the one i;m using so my vote would be for that
powermate as a close second

ironfinger

I have the SN. With the current driver, I was able to configure my frontend to scroll and jump through albums/songs/videos, pause/play selected tracks, adjust volume, and select between a couple screens, and pull back to the main menu. I pretty much never use the touchscreen for music anymore, don't think I can ever go back.

VmtSquad

Nice post, i'll be integrating the Powermate soon, i'll post my comment and compatibility issues when time comes.

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VmtSquad - I sold my soul to Honda!
CarPC progress: 15%

lkstaack

Yes, I agree that the SN looks very good; almost like a BMW I-Drive. However, what does it offer a carputer application that isn't easily available with PM or NL?

ironfinger

it has more controls and buttons than the PM. I don't have an NL, but I think the NL may have better functionality, it just doesn't look as good.

Tony840

Afternoon. 1st post here, as I have been drawn into car PCs through another BMW Forum site.

I have recently ordered the Immersion TouchSense PR-1000 as a secondary input device. As yet I have no feedback, no pun, for it but when it arrives and it is tested I'll post results.

From this thread I see that noone has recommended it yet, out of the four listed. What are your reasons for this ?

cheers

Tony

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lkstaack

My understanding is that Front Ends must be specifically written for it, or better universal drivers must be designed. Only those rare souls with the technical knowledge, time, and desire can use it right now.

ironfinger

i think it's because no one has written any support for it.

lkstaack

Would a N00b with limited technical skills be able to easily integrate SN into the popular FEs?

ironfinger

i think so, check this thread for the details on cherrybombs driver:

http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/soft...thread-11.html

starting on page 11 is where the meat of the info is.