Strategy: Joystick with macros for mouse use

6 Keywords: Joystick, Joystick-to-mouse, Dexterity, Mobility, Stiffness, Tremor

Joystick and Joystick-to-mouse software"For my Masters course I got an adapted joystick and ‘Joystick to Mouse’ software which has made new and updated versions of course software easier to learn (I was very reliant on learning keyboard shortcuts before). It has also made my general work quicker as I can switch between short cut keys and joystick control (with macros) which lets me work for longer and allows me to access programs that have mouse only controls.

Having the ‘Joystick to Mouse’ software automatically brings the pointer back to the centre of the screen when you click which helps in terms of reducing the amount of time and control needed to move from points between areas you are working on. Joystick with magnification

Also being able to easily customise macros for the physical buttons on the joystick means you can tailor the commands to individual programs or tasks. You can add switches to the joystick as well, which makes it a very adaptable piece of kit. There is a macro builder that is easy to use and being being able to make commands for things like F9 (which skips between data points in order) or use an arrow key for one of the 'extra' buttons, has really speeded up my data work."

Quote

"It’s difficult, (using a mouse) ... I tend to use keyboard shortcuts rather than the mouse, but when my keyboarding skills get bad I end up swapping, basically, which is why I’m hoping the joystick will make things easier."

- Hannah

Tip

If you are using a joystick and you feel you need it to work like a mouse try some of the free software programs. However, if you need very particular types of cursor and pointer movements you may have to spend some money!

Technologies