| Foreword
While perusing the shelves of a local computer chain store, a particular item caught my attention. It was...most unusual looking...kind of a keyboard joystick thingy. I pondered what kind of gamer would actually use such an accessory. The kind that has to have every little toy imaginable. The kind that is tired of replacing keyboards due to worn out WASD keys and a hand print etched into the palm rest. The kind that thought it might shave a fraction of a second off their reaction time making their player even more lethal. The kind that just prefers a comfy place to rest their hand in this ergonomically correct world we live in. Whatever the reason, the goal of this report is to provide some feedback on a product that the gaming community may (or may not) be interested in. As to whether it's the ultimate in game geekdom or the sleeper gadget of the year, that's for each gamer to decide.
Introduction
Quite simply, the Nostromo N52 seems to be nothing more than a basic game controller that couples our generic keyboard layout typical of most first person shooters with the function of a simple game pad. Only after tinkering with the Nostromo Array Programming Software (the utility to map keys) is the true flexibility and diversity revealed. If you're not keen on mapping functions, creating macros, or remembering something other than a default keyboard layout, be warned. If you prefer customizing your configuration, and can't get enough of binding keys and creating macro shortcuts, then this is the product for you. It has unlimited potential and is extremely easy to program profiles to suit all your game needs.
The Kit
The Nostromo N52 comes packaged with a quick reference card and a CD-ROM containing the drivers and interface software. Some will appreciate the simplistic "plug it in and use it" approach while others may be disappointed at the lack of an extensive manual or omission of even a single game title. Bottom line is, it doesn't come with a lot, just the necessities.
System Requirements
• USB port
• CD-ROM or DVD drive
• Windows(r) 98, 2000, Me, or XP
• Pentium(r) 233MHz or compatible with 32MB RAM
• 30MB available on the hard drive
• DirectX(r) compatible video card
Features
• 14 programmable keyboard style buttons
• 2 programmable thumb buttons
• Mouse wheel
• Programmable 8-way directional pad
• Adjustable, removable left hand rest
• Stable base with internal metal weight and rubber footpad
*Utilizing the "shift state" feature results in 104 programmable functions.
Installation
Installation is a snap and can be accomplished with minimal time and effort. Insert the included CD-ROM and if auto run is enabled, the software will automatically start. Install the driver and Nostromo Array Programming Software. When this is completed, plug the device in and the operating system should auto-detect the new hardware and load the driver. It's that simple. (If auto run isn't enable, access the CD-ROM drive and run the setup program)
On a side note, the Nostromo N52 doesn't require the Array Programming Software/Driver to be installed or used, and would instead install as two generic Human Interface Devices (HID) - HID Keyboard Device and HID-Compliant Mouse. Using this setup, the default configuration emulates a standard keyboard layout, with the scroll wheel/button functioning the same as a mouse, and the direction pad functioning as the keyboard arrow keys. While this default setup mirrors most first person shooter (FPS) setups, no key mapping functions would be available, and therefore it is recommended to use the included software/drivers for maximizing configuration capabilities.
Operations
Getting Started
Once the software/drivers are installed, the unit is connected via USB port, and you're tired of using the default setup, it's time to get busy taking full advantage of the capabilities of this device. First, you'll have to create a profile and then configure the software for use.
There are essentially two components to the Nostromo Array Programming Software
- Profile Editor: Used to create and edit a profile - assigns functions to keys.
- Loadout Manager: Used to load desired profile for use - auto and manual mode.
Basic Overview of Creating a Profile
To create a profile, start the Profile Editor. Once the utility starts the following screen should be displayed.
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Notice the default setting is already assigned to each key.
Now the user has two options when assigning new key bindings - single key or macro.
Assigning functions to keys is as simple as clicking on the desired button and selecting either a single key or recording a macro for the key. |
To demonstrate a possibility of recording a macro - the user could record a macro that when pressed during game play would open the chat window and send a pre-recorded message like "Enemy Spotted." - all in one keystroke.
Now I know you're thinking, "That's nice, but my game already has pre-recorded chat messages." True indeed, but not all do, not all use the same key locations and even so, using a device like this across similar games, the same profile and pre-recorded messages could be used. One possibility. Plenty of others exist.
Once a profile is created, it can be loaded and used by the Nostromo N52. Generally, a profile will exist for each game but this is solely up to the user. Also, custom profiles can be uploaded/downloaded from the company's website.
Shift State
What I particularly like is the shift state. There is a normal mode, and then three shifts states (red green blue). It has an LED to let you know what shift you're in. So, for example, you can make all your comms (pre-recorded text messages) in a blue shift, then you record each message with the transmit key - text message - enter...so in game play...you click on the blue shift state...send your message and then return back to normal shift state all with one keypress. It works really well.
Basic Overview of Using the Loadout Manager
The Loadout Manager has two modes - automatic and manual. The Loadout Manager runs minimized in the System Tray.
In manual mode, the user selects the profile that will be loaded and used by the device. An easier way to load a profile is selecting automatic mode. In auto mode, the user configures the software to recognize when a particular game starts and to then load the associated profile.
In the example, Ghost Recon (of course) is set up on Profile 1. Whenever Ghost Recon starts, if the Loadout Manager is running and is in the auto mode, it will start the utility with the Ghost Recon profile loaded and ready for use.
High
-Easy to use and customize - tons of possibilities.
-Comfortable and convenient alternative to standard keyboard for game playing.
-Reasonable price.
-Saves wear and tear on keyboard.
*Not that this would apply for all gamers, but one situation where I find this device particularly handy is playing racing sims, where keeping your hands on the wheel is usually a good idea. Unfortunately, with a wheel mounted on your desk, it can be quite cumbersome to try and use the keyboard to change settings, send messages, navigate options while trying to keep your car on the track. This device, placed near the wheel easily overcomes these obstacles, providing a convenient and easy to use alternative to the standard keyboard.
Low
-Remembering all the commands once you program them in.
-Adapting to the feel of the device - (hand goes to sleep after a few hours of continuous play - then again...so do other parts of the body.)
-Programming profiles for games that have lots of keyboard controls.
Conclusion
The Nostromo N52 is a creative and innovative gadget that elite game geeks can put to good use. It's robust capabilities with mapping keys and comfortable hand rest appealed to me, though I'm not sure that it has improved my game playing much...yet. Definitely not an essential item in a gamer's arsenal but fun to use if so equipped, and lethal in the hands of those that master it. I'd recommend the Nostromo N52 for gamers who have all the other gaming gadgets and aren't saving every penny and dime for that new video card that's release is just over the horizon.
Fan Feedback
"This is a great little gaming device. The macros and it's application are terrific. Definately a worthwhile investment if you're a fps gamer. 4/5"
"I love this little thing. 5/5"
"the N52 becomes my pick for best FPS/RTS accessory on the market. 5/5"
"This is an absolute must for serious gamers."
"I've tried out this pad extensively in UT2004 and my goal was achieved: my game
improved tremendously."
Availability
This item is currently available at most local computer stores and from various online websites including ebay.com, buy.com and Amazon.com, average price: $20-30 (U.S.)
Xian Saint |
