Hillcrest Labs Introduces In-Air Mouse for TV
Targeting consumers who connect their computer to their TV, Hillcrest
Labs introduced its Loop pointer. This unique mouse-like device lets you
control a computer’s onscreen cursor with the flick of a wrist. The Loop
pointer uses a round and ergonomic design with four buttons and a scroll wheel.
This mouse was originally developed as a concept product to display Hillcrest Labs' Freespace in-air pointing and motion control technology. Freespace technology features high accuracy and precision. It also generates intuitive cursor motions on the screen regardless of the orientation of the device. For users who don’t have steady hands, Freespace can distinguish between intentional and unintentional movement, including natural hand tremors. As an added benefit, the Loop pointer uses RF technology, so users don’t have to worry about objects that would interfere with traditional line-of-sight infrared devices.
"As our flagship Freespace product design, the Loop pointer
has captured the imagination and interest of most people who have used
it," said Dan Simpkins, CEO and founder of Hillcrest Labs.
According to a recent Consumer Electronics Association report, more than 7 million households have a PC connected to their home television. To use the Loop pointer, users must connect a small, USB 2.0 transceiver into a compatible computer or device. No special drive software is required for use on a PC or Mac.
In addition to being compatible with PCs and Macs, the Loop pointer can also be used with the Kodak Theatre HD player, PS3, and Apple TV. The Loop pointer is not a game controller for the PS3, but it can be used to navigate the Internet using the PS3’s web browser.
The Loop pointer is available for $99 through www.amazon.com or www.hillcrestlabs.com/loop.
Loop Pointer Specifications
This mouse was originally developed as a concept product to display Hillcrest Labs' Freespace in-air pointing and motion control technology. Freespace technology features high accuracy and precision. It also generates intuitive cursor motions on the screen regardless of the orientation of the device. For users who don’t have steady hands, Freespace can distinguish between intentional and unintentional movement, including natural hand tremors. As an added benefit, the Loop pointer uses RF technology, so users don’t have to worry about objects that would interfere with traditional line-of-sight infrared devices.
"As our flagship Freespace product design, the Loop pointer
has captured the imagination and interest of most people who have used
it," said Dan Simpkins, CEO and founder of Hillcrest Labs.According to a recent Consumer Electronics Association report, more than 7 million households have a PC connected to their home television. To use the Loop pointer, users must connect a small, USB 2.0 transceiver into a compatible computer or device. No special drive software is required for use on a PC or Mac.
In addition to being compatible with PCs and Macs, the Loop pointer can also be used with the Kodak Theatre HD player, PS3, and Apple TV. The Loop pointer is not a game controller for the PS3, but it can be used to navigate the Internet using the PS3’s web browser.
The Loop pointer is available for $99 through www.amazon.com or www.hillcrestlabs.com/loop.
Loop Pointer Specifications
- Diameter: 4.8 inches (approximately the size of a CD or DVD)
- Width: 1.2 inches
- Weight: 4.9 ounces
- Color: Black with silver buttons
- Connectivity: USB 2.0 antenna with built in RF (radio frequency transceiver)
- Power supply: 2 AA batteries (included)
