October 11th, 1999
Orbit USB 2-Button Trackball, Solid Low-end Offering by Kyle D'Addario For those using the hockey puck style mouse included with the iMac or G3/G4 systems, or the iPuck, who are longing for something more, Kensington may have an answer. The Kensington Orbit USB is a two button trackball for use on USB equipped Macs. Functionally, it is a dead ringer for the traditional Kensington Orbit, but some stylistic enhancements have been made for the Macintosh-oriented USB version. Usability: The Orbit it slightly larger than a traditional mouse, but shaped essentially the same. Instead of moving the mouse, there is a ball at the end of the device (where the middle button would be on a three button mouse), and a button on either side. For those that have never used a trackball before, the Orbit should feel comfortable. The translucent white and green device supports the hand much the same as a traditional mouse, but cursor control is achieved by rotating the ball located at the end of the Orbit. For those who have endured the iMac style mouse, the Orbit will feel glorious, a veritable input-heaven. It is big, easy to control, and the snazzy case style will allow it to fit in with any iMac or G3/G4 and its peripherals. It has a somewhat solid feel, and cursor control is simple. Connectivity was as simple as one might expect. The Orbit plugs into the USB port on the iMac style keyboard, and is hot-swappable with any other USB input device. In other words, if one wanted to use a USB joystick, the Orbit can be unplugged and the USB joystick can be plugged into the same spot without having to restart the system. However, there are some drawbacks. For those used to working with other Kensington products, specifically the oversized 4-button Turbo Mouse, the Orbit will be a monumental disappointment. Compared to the indestructible feel of the Turbo Mouse, the Orbit feels flimsy. Popping the ball out of the case on the Orbit to clean the bearings also does not inspire confidence when compared to its older Turbo brother. The bearings on the Orbit are tiny and fragile looking compared to those on the Turbo Mouse. Also, the Turbo Mouse anchors itself to your desktop space simply because of it's size. The Orbit does not, and after a few minutes of use the Orbit shifts around and vertical and horizontal orientation can become confused. We found ourselves having to physically move the Orbit back to the original starting point on the desk every so often. Software:
Conclusion: If you are looking for a replacement for your hockey puck style iMac mouse, the Orbit is a solid choice, especially if you are going to download the MouseWorks software. However, if you are looking for a solid workhorse trackball, or are considering replacing your old Turbo Mouse with a USB enabled device, you will be disappointed. Hold out for a USB version of the Turbo Mouse.
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