Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Although the prototypes I used were cream-colored, in its final production form, the TrackPoint
consists of a small, red, silicone rubber knob nestled between the G, H, and B keys on the keyboard.
The primary and secondary mouse buttons are placed below the spacebar where you can easily reach
them with your thumbs without taking your hands off the keyboard. Newer versions also include a
third button that can be used for scrolling.
Studies conducted by Selker found that the act of removing your hand from the keyboard (to reach for
a mouse) and then replacing your hand back on the keyboard takes approximately 1.75 seconds. If you
type at 60 wpm (words per minute), that can equal nearly two lost words every minute, not including
the time lost while you regain your train of thought. You can save almost all of this time if you use the
TrackPoint to move the pointer or make a selection (click or double-click) instead of a mouse. The
TrackPoint also enables you to perform drag-and-drop functions easily.
IBM's research also found that people can get up to 20% more work accomplished using the
TrackPoint instead of a mouse, especially when the application involves a mix of typing and pointing
activities, such as with word processing, spreadsheets, and other typical office applications. In
usability tests with the TrackPoint, IBM gave a group of desktop computer users both a TrackPoint
and a traditional mouse. After two weeks, 80% of the users had unplugged their mice and switched
solely to the TrackPoint device. Selker is convinced (as am I) that the TrackPoint is the best pointing
solution for both laptop and desktop systems.
Another feature of the TrackPoint is that a standard mouse can be connected to the system at the same
time to enable dual-pointer use. This setup not only enables a single person to use both devices, but it
enables two people to use the TrackPoint and the mouse simultaneously to move the pointer on the
screen, which can be useful in some training situations. The first pointing device that moves (thus
issuing a system interrupt) takes precedence and retains control over the mouse pointer on the screen
until it completes its movement action. The second pointing device is automatically locked out until
the primary device is stationary. This enables the use of both devices yet prevents each one from
interfering with the other.
IBM/Lenovo has added various versions of the TrackPoint to its laptop computers, as well as to high-
end keyboards sold under the IBM/Lenovo, Lexmark, and Unicomp names. Laptop computer makers,
such as HP/Compaq, Dell, and Toshiba, have licensed the TrackPoint device (Toshiba calls it
Accupoint) and use it on various models.
I have compared the TrackPoint device to other pointing devices for laptops (especially touch pads),
but nothing compares in terms of accuracy and control—and, of course, the fact that you don't have to
take your hands off the keyboard to use it!
Unfortunately, most of the TrackPoint devices used by laptops other than IBM/Lenovo don't have the
full features of the IBM/Lenovo versions, especially including the multiple tip choices, the third
scroll button, and “negative inertia” control. One important feature to look for is the ability to accept
different IBM/Lenovo TrackPoint caps. These have a square hole in them and allow choosing from
several different types.
Over the years IBM/Lenovo has upgraded the TrackPoint pointing stick to the TrackPoint III and the
current TrackPoint IV. Two main differences exist in the III/IV system, but the most obvious one is the
rubber cap. The original caps were made from pure silicone rubber, which was grippy and worked
well in most situations. However, if the user has greasy fingers, the textured surface of the rubber can
become slippery. Cleaning the cap (and the user's hands) solves the problem, but it can be annoying
