Belkin n52te Hardware Review — www.impulsegamer.com —
Belkin n52te
With the first person shooter market on the
PC one of the most popular gaming franchises, there have been quite a
few accessories available to make this style of gaming more accessible
and enjoyable for the user and Belkins n52te is the latest
mouse/keyboard to cause an uproar.
The n52te is an ergonomically designed
«keyboard» with a limited number of buttons suited to a first person shooter,
RTS game or even MMORPG with a stylised mouse wheel to assist with
gameplay. The te in the title stands for
Tournament Edition that although may be aimed at the more professional
gamer, is quite accessible to everyone.
Features
- Backlit keypad and
scroll wheel for total control in dark conditions
- Enhanced tactile
feedback and button responsiveness for rapid key presses
- 15 fully programmable
keys built for speed
- Adjustable soft-touch
wrist pad for maximum comfort and endurance
- Programmable 8-way
thumb pad with removable joystick
- Nonslip rubber pads
grip in place for aggressive fragging
- Easily toggle between 3
keymap states
- Razer software
provides:
- Personalization of
multiple player profiles
- Razer Synapse
onboard memory enables plug-and-play versatility
with no additional software installation
- Unparalleled
customization tools for intuitive setup and
performance
Although the design the n52te is quite stylised and futuristic in
appearance, the creation of the unit was a joint endeavor with Belkin
and Razor which is visually quite impressive.![]()
You can even use the
unit for dark conditions via its backlit keypad that almost likes like
something out of Star Trek.
Unlike its predecessor,
this current incarnation also allows you add a removable joystick to the
device that neatly fits into the digital d-pad and was actually quite
responsive when we tested it with a variety of different games.
Using
the n52te does take a little to master due to its design and almost
revolutionary appearance but after a few hours of using the device, even
the most novice of gamers will appreciate the facets of this device.
While playing a variety of games that included first person shooter,
racing simulations and even a flight simulator, the controls was quite
responsive as mentioned earlier, however where the unit dose excel is
through the use with first person shooters that made it quite a
comfortable experience without it being too convoluted.
In other words,
everything was in the right place!
The
software for the device is quite straightforward to use as the user can
program a variety of macros, ensuring for better gameplay. With 15 fully
programable built keys, an easy to use mouse wheel, everything was
designed perfectly from the start, although our only concern was left
handers versus right handers. So if possible, you may
want to test the device at a store before purchasing the device.
At the
end of the day, the Belkin n52te may not be the accessory for all
gamers, however if you are a fanatic at first person shooters or gaming
in general, than this
device may give the added edge to push you over to victory. Easy setup
and installation, good software and quite intuitive to use, another
great gaming idea from Belkin and Razor!
Full text of «n52te USER MANUAL Software Installation 1.
Insert the»
n52te USER MANUAL
Software Installation
i.
Insert the n52te Editor software Installation CD into your Mac’s CD/DVD
drive.
. Double click on the “n52te Editor” CD icon that shortly appears on your
desktop.
. Double click on the file named “n52te Editor.dmg” and follow the
on-screen instructions to continue with the software installation.
. After installation has finished, be sure to save any existing work you
currently have open then click “Finish” to reboot your Mac.
. After OSX boots up, connect the n52te to an available USB port on your
Mac.
. If you are prompted by OSX to define a new keyboard, please ignore and
continue by closing the dialog box.
. To verify if the installation was successful, please proceed to the next
section of the manual titled “Installation Verification”.
Installation Verification
1.
To confirm if the installation was successful, open System Preferences
from the OSX Dock.
. Alternately, you can access System Preferences by clicking on the Apple
icon from the OSX menu bar and selecting “System Preferences”.
. Locate and open the “n52te Editor” icon under the section named “Other”.
. From the main n52te Editor window, click “Device” to make sure your
n52te is detected.
Page
CONFIGURING n52te
n52te Editor
n52te Editor is the tool used to create and customize profiles. A profile is a
set of remapped button functions that can be saved and recalled at a later
time.
Some examples of the programmable functions available are:
Single Key - Program a button on the n52te to emulate a keyboard key.
Macros - Record a sequence of keyboard keystrokes and/or mouse-button
presses to be played back when a button is pushed.
Keymap — Switch between the three color Keymaps (Blue, Red, Green) and
effectively triple the number of functions you can program for each button in a
single profile. The default Keymap is Blue.
Mouse - Program n52te to emulate mouse clicks or scroll wheel functions.
Polling Frequency — Sets the polling rate to: 125Hz, 500Hz, or 1000Hz.
Note: You need to reduce the polling rate if your Mac does not
support USB 2.
0.
Razer Synapse™ - Store one of your profiles in the onboard memory to take
it with you! The profile stored with Razer Synapse will be available on any Mac
even without the software installed.
Main Screen of the n52te Editor
This figure displays the n52te Editor screen for the Nostromo n52 Tournament
Edition.
000
<> | [ Show All
{ Profiles | Macros
[B] (New Profile )
v Auto-switch to selected profile
nS2te Editor
ral )
Device Help |
“All Applications Delete Profile
M Enable auto-switching
Keymap: í E Blue [E]
Trigger Assignment
C) Key 01 Key <tab>
0 key o2 Key <Q>
Key 03 Key <W>
[a] Key 04 Key <E>
[a] Key 05 Key <R>
Key 06 Key <caps lock>
G key 07 Key <A>
Key 08 Key <S>
[a] Key 09 Key <D>
[ma] Key 10 Key <F> >
[a Key 11 Key <shift> $
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The main screen consists of:
View of the Device — This makes it clear which buttons you are programming.
Profiles — This pane allows you to manage and edit profiles.
Macros - This pane allows you to define and edit sequences of keyboard
keystrokes, and/or mouse-button presses to create your own custom macros.
Device — This pane allows you to view the connectivity status of the n52te, the
version of the Editor software, and the firmware version of the n52te device
currently connected to your Mac.
Help - This pane displays the Help menu for the n52te Editor which contains
the User Manual and Technical Support information.
Page
PROFILES
Profiles are sets of remapped button and/or programmable functions
customized for a specific application that can be saved and recalled at a later
time.
The Profiles pane allows you to select and manage the entire library of
custom profiles located on your Mac.
ean n52te Editor
<> | [ Show all Q 7
{Profiles | Macros
I$) (New Profile)
v Auto-switch to selected profile
Device Help |
All Applications Delete Profile
KA Enable auto-switching
Keymap: ΠBlue E]
Trigger Assignment | Assignment:
Ki ib: Tor
strc Single Key E]
Key 02 Key <Q>
3) Key 03 Key <W> Key to press: ae E2]
C) Key 04 Key <E>
tab
Key 05 Key <R>
C) Key 06 Key <caps lock>
Key 07 Key <A>
Key 08 Key <S>
G key 09 Key <D>
Key 10 Key <F> ?
Key 11 Key <shift> "4| È Restore Defaults )
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You can manage profiles by using the following buttons from the Profiles
pane:
New Profile — Creates a new profile.
Delete Profile — Deletes the currently selected profile.
Enable Auto-Switching — Toggles Auto-Switching On/Off for the currently
selected profile.
Selection Menu: To change the currently active profile, click the drop-down
list next to the “New Profile” button and select the desired profile.
Creating a Profile
This section will explain how to create a profile using the n52te Editor
software. In general, creating a profile consists of remapping button functions
for each of the three Keymaps, configuring Auto-Switching options, and
naming and saving your profile.
1. Click on the “New Profile” button.
2. Locate and open the application executable you wish to program the new
profile to.
3. Your new profile has been created. Proceed to the next section to learn
how to customize and program your new profile.
Remapping Single-Key Assignments
1.
Begin from the Profiles pane.
2. For the n52te button you wish to program, locate and select it from the
buttons list.
3. Under “Assignment:” select “Single Key” from the drop down menu.
Then press a key on your keyboard and it will be recorded by the Editor
software. When a key is assigned to a button, pushing the button is the
same as pressing that key on the keyboard.
4. If you are happy with the current assignment, you can continue to program
other buttons in the same manner or close out of the n52te Editor software
to immediately use your newly programmed profile.
Keymap
The n52te Editor allows you to program three Keymaps: Blue, Red, and
Green. A Keymap allows you to add another layer of programming to each
button. In order to switch between Keymaps during play, you must either
dedicate a button for switching to the desired Keymap, or dedicate one
to cycle through all three Keymaps. Because the second option of cycling
through Keymaps requires only one button, two extra buttons are free for
further customization.
Note: Buttons that are selected for one of these Keymap switching options
will be dedicated to this function across all three Keymaps in the current
profile.
e To program Keymap switching options, locate the desired n52te button
from the Profiles pane, then from the “Assignment” drop-down menu, select
“Keymap”. The default switching option is “Cycle Keymaps” To choose a
different one, select from the options available under the drop-down menu.
e If you select “Momentary”, the n52te will only load the desired keymap
while you hold that button down. If you select “Toggle”, the button acts like
a switch and n52te will remain in the desired keymap until another keymap
is selected.
e You can view and edit different Keymaps by selecting “Blue”, “Red”, or
“Green” under the “Keymap” drop-down menu.
Page
MACROS
Macros are recorded sequences of keyboard keystrokes, and/or mouse-
button presses that can be saved played back by the n52te at a later time.
The Macros pane allows you create, edit, and manage macros.
Saved
macros can then be assigned to any button in any of the three Keymaps, and
are available for use in any profile.
@e0 n52te Editor
[<.> ][ Show all | Q
Profiles | Macros’) Device Help |
Available macros:
Macro Name Repeat Mode Delay ( New )
n52te Run Once t- :
(Delete )
( Import )
( Export )
Macro definition: (click on the list and type keys to add them quickly)
[Command i; Argument Delay | (C AddKey )
Press Key N - : =
Release Key N = j= ( Add Button _)
‘Press Key 5 - : —
à EaR
[Release Key 5 e pj =n
Press Key 2 - :
Release Key 2 = > | (C Moveup_)
Move Down
F BELKIN Rozer
Available Macros - This displays a list of existing macros currently stored
your Mac.
New - This button is used to create a new macro.
Delete — This button is used to delete any existing macro.
Import - This button allows you to import a macro from a backup or from a
different Mac.
Export - This button allows you to backup your macros or use on a different
Mac.
Note: You cannot record mouse click commands and advanced functions
during the macro recording phase, but you can add them manually by using
“Add Button”.![]()
Repeat Mode - This setting determine how the macro will be played back
when triggered:
e Run Once (Default Setting) — Using this setting executes the macro only
once each time the assigned n52te button is pressed.
e Repeat while pressed — Using this setting will force the macro to repeat
continuously while the assigned n52te button is held down.
e Repeat Until Next Key — Using this setting forces the assigned button
to act like a toggle switch. If you push it once and let go, the macro will
continuously repeat until the same button is pressed again.
Delay — This sets the delay between every event items in a macro sequence to
the same value.
CREATING A MACRO
This section will explain how to create a macro using the n52te Editor
software.
1. Click “New” button to create a new macro.
2. To give it a name, type it into the “Macro Name” field under the “Available
Macros” list.
oo
. To define a different repeat behavior, select it from the “Repeat Mode”
drop-down menu. Note: The default repeat behavior is “Repeat Once”.![]()
. Click on the “Record” button to start recording keyboard events.
a
. Using the keyboard, type in the keystroke combination of the macro you
want to create. This will normally be linking spells to create a new combo,
or phrases, such as “cover me”that you would send to your teammates.
Notice the keys you press and release are recorded in the “Macro
Definition” list.
6. You can give the new macro a name by typing it in the “Macro Name” field
under the “Available Macros” list.
N
. If you wish to manually insert keystrokes or mouse buttons, you can do so
with the “Add Button” function.
8. If you wish to manually set delays between each key press, you can do so
with the “Insert Delay” button.
Ko]
. If you wish to manually remove items in the macro sequence, you can do
so with the “Remove” button.
10. If you are finished editing your macro, go back to the Profiles pane and
your new macro will automatically be saved.
11. Your newly created macro is now assigned to the n52te button you have
chosen.![]()
DEVICE
The Device pane provides information on the connectivity status of the n52te,
the firmware revision, the version of the n52te Editor software, and allows you
to set the polling frequency.
ear n52te Editor
[a>] [ Show all | Q
Í Profiles Macros | Device | Help
Firmware version: 1.00
Software version: 1.0
Polling frequency: 1000 Hz Ez)
n52te connected
WRazer
Firmware Version - This displays the firmware version of the n52te currently
connected to your Mac.
Software Version — This displays the version of the n52te Editor software cur-
rently installed.
Polling Frequency — Sets the polling rate to: 125Hz, 500Hz, or 1000Hz.
Connectivity — This graphical display shows whether the n52te is currently
connected.
HELP
The Help pane contains information on how to obtain technical support for
the n52te and the Editor software.
@ee0 n52te Editor
|<.» || Show All. | Q
“Profiles | Macros Device |) Help: }
Online Support
BELKIN.
n52te Editor
Mac OS X Version 1.![]()
0
©2007 Belkin, Inc.
http://www.belkin.com/
WRazer
If you have any problems using the n52te or Editor software, simply click
“Online Support” for the latest software, firmware, community forums, or to
contact Belkin’s technical support team.
Page
Using the n52te as a Default HID Device
If you choose not to install the software or create custom profiles, then by
default, your n52te will utilize the following functions:
1. Tab D-pad directions are the keyboard’s arrow keys.
2.Q Thumb pad is the “Space” key.
3. W Thumb button is the “ALT” key.
4. E Scroll wheel emulates a standard-mouse scroll wheel with
a third mouse click.
5.R
6. CAPS
7.A
8.S
9.D
10. F
11. SHIFT
12.Z
13. X
14.C
15. SPACE BAR
This configuration works well with the default keyboard setup of most first-
person shooter games.
Thumb-stick
The n52te comes equipped with a removable thumb-stick for customized
control of the 8-way DPad. Simply pull the thumb-stick up away from the
DPad to remove it if preferred.![]()
Palm Rest Adjustment
The n52te is designed to adapt to hands of different sizes. There are three
different hand-size adjustments that can be made to the palm rest in order to
help you easily reach all of the n52te’s buttons and keys.
1. For average-sized hands, no adjustment is necessary. The n52te’s palm
rest comes configured for the average-sized hand.
2. For large hands, you can easily increase the distance between the palm
rest and the main keys. Simply pull the palm rest straight up away from the
n52te’s main chassis until it pops free. On the chassis you will see two sets
of holes. Then reinsert the palm rest into the holes farthest from the main
keys and snap it down firmly.
3. For small hands, you can simply remove the palm rest completely for
easier access to the n52te’s buttons.
INFORMATION
FCC Statement
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY WITH FCC RULES FOR ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY
We, Belkin International, Inc., of 501 West Walnut Street, Compton, CA 90220, declare under our
sole responsibility that the product:
F8GFPC200
to which this declaration relates:
Complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.![]()
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment may only be
operated indoors. Operation outdoors is in violation of 47 U.S.C. 301 and could subject the operator
to serious legal penalties.
CE Declaration of Conformity
We, Belkin International, Inc., declare under our sole responsibility that the F8GFPC200, to which
this declaration relates, is in conformity with Generic Emissions Standard EN55022:1998 Class B,
EN50081-1, and with Generic Immunity Standard EN50082-1:1992.
Belkin International, Inc., Limited Lifetime Product Warranty
What this warranty covers.
Belkin International, Inc. (“Belkin”) warrants to the original purchaser of this Belkin product that the
product shall be free of defects in design, assembly, material, or workmanship.
What the period of coverage is.
Belkin warrants the Belkin product for the lifetime of the product.![]()
What will we do to correct problems?
Product Warranty.
Belkin will repair or replace, at its option, any defective product free of charge (except for shipping
charges for the product).
What is not covered by this warranty?
All above warranties are null and void if the Belkin product is not provided to Belkin for inspection
upon Belkin’s request at the sole expense of the purchaser, or if Belkin determines that the Belkin
product has been improperly installed, altered in any way, or tampered with. The Belkin Product
Warranty does not protect against acts of God such as flood, lightning, earthquake, war, vandalism,
theft, normal-use wear and tear, erosion, depletion, obsolescence, abuse, damage due to low
voltage disturbances (i.e. brownouts or sags), non-authorized program, or system equipment
modification or alteration.
How to get service.
To get service for your Belkin product you must take the following steps:
1. Contact Belkin International, Inc., at 501 W. Walnut St.![]()
, Compton CA 90220, Attn: Customer
Service, or call (800)-223-5546, within 15 days of the Occurrence. Be prepared to provide the
following information:
a. The part number of the Belkin product.
b. Where you purchased the product.
c. When you purchased the product.
d. Copy of original receipt.
2. Your Belkin Customer Service Representative will then instruct you on how to forward your
receipt and Belkin product and how to proceed with your claim.
Belkin reserves the right to review the damaged Belkin product. All costs of shipping the Belkin
product to Belkin for inspection shall be borne solely by the purchaser. If Belkin determines, in
its sole discretion, that it is impractical to ship the damaged equipment to Belkin, Belkin may
designate, in its sole discretion, an equipment repair facility to inspect and estimate the cost to
repair such equipment. The cost, if any, of shipping the equipment to and from such repair facility
and of such estimate shall be borne solely by the purchaser.![]()
Damaged equipment must remain
available for inspection until the claim is finalized. Whenever claims are settled, Belkin reserves the
right to be subrogated under any existing insurance policies the purchaser may have.
How state law relates to the warranty.
THIS WARRANTY CONTAINS THE SOLE WARRANTY OF BELKIN. THERE ARE NO OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR, EXCEPT AS REQUIRED BY LAW, IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE
IMPLIED WARRANTY OR CONDITION OF QUALITY, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR
A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND SUCH IMPLIED WARRANTIES, IF ANY, ARE LIMITED IN
DURATION TO THE TERM OF THIS WARRANTY.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations
may not apply to you.
IN NO EVENT SHALL BELKIN BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR MULTIPLE DAMAGES SUCH AS, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOST BUSINESS
OR PROFITS ARISING OUT OF THE SALE OR USE OF ANY BELKIN PRODUCT, EVEN IF
ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which may vary
from state to state.![]()
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental, consequential
or other damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
’ Page
For information on product disposal please refer to http://
environmental.belkin.com
Free Tech Support*
You can find additional support information on our website www.belkin.com through the tech-
support area. If you want to contact technical support by phone, please call the number you
need from the list below*.
*Local rates apply
Country Number Internet adress
AUSTRIA 08 - 20 20 07 66 http://www.belkin.com/uk
BELGIUM 07 07 00 073 http://www.belkin.com/nl
CZECH REPUBLIC 23 900 04 06 http://www.belkin.com/uk
DENMARK 701 22 403 http://www.belkin.com/uk
FINLAND 00800 - 22 35 54 60 http://www.belkin.com/uk
FRANCE 08 - 25 54 00 26 http://www.belkin.com/fr
GERMANY 0180 - 500 57 09 http://www.belkin.com/de
GREECE 00800 - 44 14 23 90 http://www.belkin.com/uk
HUNGARY 06 - 17 77 49 06 http://www.belkin.com/uk
ICELAND 800 8534 http://www.![]()
belkin.com/uk
IRELAND 0818 55 50 06 http://www.belkin.com/uk
ITALY 02 - 69 43 0251 http://www.belkin.com/it/support/tech
LUXEMBOURG 34 20 80 8560 http://www.belkin.com/uk
NETHERLANDS 0900 - 040 07 90 €0.10 per minute | http://www.belkin.com/nl
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RUSSIA 495 580 9541 http://www.belkin.com/uk
SOUTH AFRICA 0800 - 99 15 21 http://www.belkin.com/uk
SPAIN 902 - 02 43 66 http://www.belkin.com/es/support/tech
SWEDEN 07 - 71 40 04 53 http://www.belkin.com/se/support/tech
SWITZERLAND 08 - 48 00 02 19 http://www.belkin.com/uk
UNITED KINGDOM 0845 - 607 77 87 http://www.belkin.com/uk
OTHER COUNTRIES __| +44 - 1933 35 2000
BELKIN.
www.belkin.com
Belkin Tech Support
UK: 0845 607 77 87
Europe: www.belkin.com/support
Belkin Ltd. Belkin B.V. Belkin GmbH
Express Business Park Boeing Avenue 333 Hanebergstrasse 2
Shipton Way, Rushden 1119 PH Schiphol-Rijk 80637 Munich
NN10 6GL, United Kingdom Netherlands Germany
+44 (0) 1933 35 2000
+44 (0) 1933 31 2000 fax
+31 (0) 20 654 73 00
+31 (0) 20 654 73 49 fax
+49 (0) 89 14 34050
+49 (0) 89 14 34 05 100 fax
Belkin SAS Belkin Iberia Belkin Sweden
130 rue de Silly Avda.![]()
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France Spain Sweden
+33 (0) 1 41 03 14 40 +34 91 625 80 00 +46 (0) 8 5229 1870
+33 (0) 1 41 31 01 72 fax +34 902 02 00 34 fax +46 (0) 8 5229 1874 fax
© 2007 Belkin International, Inc. All rights reserved. All trade names are registered trademarks of
respective manufacturers listed. Windows is either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
PMO01./36a F8GFPC200ea
Belkin Nostromo n52 SpeedPad Download and Install
- Mac
- Drivers
- Motherboard drivers
- Belkin Nostromo n52 SpeedPad Download
Download (327.33KB)
Belkin Nostromo n52 SpeedPad O
Belkin Nostromo n52 SpeedPad Specifications
nine0018
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Added:
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Release Date:
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gaming device driver
Belkin Nostromo n52 SpeedPad Screenshots
Belkin Nostromo n52 SpeedPad Editorial Rating tablets, joysticks, etc.
![]()
The SpeedPad can be best described as a keyboard and gaming keyboard combo. The 10 keys on the n50 act like keys on a keyboard, making them easy to access and intuitive. The N50 also features an eight-way directional pad, much like the d-pad on a standard gaming pad. ItandAtilde;? AndAcirc; andcent; s is an innovative, multi-purpose tool that will take your gaming experience to a whole new level. nine0017
Download (327.33KB)
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friend among strangers, stranger among friends / Sudo Null IT News
Game keypads occupy a special niche among computer devices.![]()
To call it a keyboard, the language does not turn, they do not reach the joysticks, and they are also very far from full-fledged “mice”. Distinctive features of keypads are ease of operation, ergonomics and compactness. Add to all this additional options, such as the ability to create macros and a number of additional keys — and we get a very unusual device. nine0017
The last word in the world of gamepads — Razer Nostromo . Razer devices tend to be a little more expensive than other similar devices, but are well known for their quality and reliability. Nostromo is no exception in this regard.
Historical reference
Everything new is well forgotten old. The device, which was called the Nostromo SpeedPad n52, was developed by Belkin in 2006. In 2008, the second model, n52te, was released, already in collaboration with Razer , which created software for the new keypad. And in 2010, Razer announced the new Nostromo.![]()
It turned out that this keypad has two parents. There is a mention of «Developed with Belkin» on the Razer Nostromo page. On the Belkin n52te page, the «Buy Now» link leads to the Razer website.
It is likely that the device was named after the starship from the movie Alien. And that, in turn, received a name in honor of the novel of the same name by the English writer Joseph Conrad.
What’s in the Box
Inside the box, in addition to the keypad itself, we will find a standard set: Razer product catalog, manual and company stickers. The latest drivers can be downloaded from the Razer website.
Nostromo Specifications:
Terrible on the face, kind on the inside
The base of the Nostromo is made of glossy plastic, the keys and brush rest are matte and soft due to the rubberized material. At the disposal of the player: 14 keys directly under the fingers (WASD-layout), scroll wheel, Shiny Black Button (BCK), 8-way joystick, space key under the thumb and current profile indicator.
The WASD keys are pleasant to the touch, have a soft action and feel like the buttons on a very large mobile phone at first. The location will take some getting used to. To facilitate this task, the «08» key has a small protrusion that is well felt by the finger and helps the hand to orient itself. nine0017
Despite its unusual appearance, Nostromo is easy to use. The wide base is perfect for palm grip, the keys are in the right place, and the joystick and spacebar are right next to the thumb. The only foreign body looks like a scroll, which is simply inconvenient to use in games.![]()
You can only scroll the wheel with your index finger, but you lose control over the «09» key, which is responsible for moving to the right. Let’s leave the scroll for web surfing and office applications. nine0017
The joystick has a removable head that can be easily removed from the slot. With it, it looks like a joystick (sorry for the tautology), without it it looks more like a D-pad and is better suited for precise movements. By default, it duplicates the forward / backward / right / left keys on the main keyboard, for example, they can move the cursor in a text document.
There are a total of six bases on the base of the Nostromo, which, when dusted off, hold the keypad well on any smooth surface.
Setting
Nostromo can automatically load the required profile when the desired application is launched. Thus, for each game, you can set up individual profiles that will not interfere with each other. Great feature though! It is impossible not to pour a mug of tar into this barrel of honey.![]()
Automatic switching at startup, say, Counter Strike is great. It’s not great at all that after exiting the game, the CS profile remains loaded. Assigning a default profile that would be active after exiting a game application in Windows is an impossible task. nine0017
Thus, if we plan to use Nostromo in everyday tasks with a lot of office applications, then we have to switch the profile manually after a game session. Every time we select the default profile from the configurator menu, or sacrifice one key for this.
Any Nostromo key can be remapped to your heart’s content. The number of options is amazing — 20 possible profiles, each of which stores 8 layouts. In total, we have a matrix of 160 sets. nine0017
The question arises — why, in addition to the profiles, one more matrix level is needed? Layouts will be convenient when the same application lacks available keys or requires several different options for the same ones.
Layouts will be useful when playing MMO with several characters of different classes.![]()
The number of skills for each class is different, the number of binds and the style of play will also be different. We create an auto-profile for WoW.exe and already in this profile we configure 8 possible layouts at our discretion. nine0017
Layouts will also be very useful if there is only one computer in the house, and everyone wants to play. And everyone certainly assigns keys for their favorite game in their own way.
Looking ahead, I will say that Nostromo is usable not only in games. While writing this review, I got the idea to use it when working with Photoshop. If we discard the need to periodically type text on a “large” keyboard, the keypad is quite suitable as a mini-palette, where everything is at hand. All frequently used actions are perfectly bound to Nostromo keys. nine0017
And the coolest thing is that you can record your own macros and, for example, instead of the hellish Alt + Ctrl + Shift + N combination, create a new layer with one click.
By the way, profiles and macros are not stored inside the shaitan box, but are stored on the computer.![]()
In folder С:\Users\%username%\AppData\Roaming\Nostromo\ there are two directories, with macros and profiles respectively. In my opinion, this is a small, but still a minus. When reinstalling the system, there is a very high probability of forgetting to «save» profiles and losing all your settings for your favorite games. And when you connect to another computer, you will either have to do everything again, or bring your settings on a USB flash drive. nine0017
The backlight can either be turned off altogether, for this there is a special switch on the bottom of the device, or dimmed using the driver. The color of the backlight is a noble blue, it cannot be changed. In general, the setup does not cause any difficulties. Everything is intuitive, very simple and convenient, in the style of Razer.
Testing
The most important point of the review. Here they usually describe what it is worth (or not worth) buying a device for.![]()
We will mock Nostromo in games of different genres to find his strengths and weaknesses. Let’s start with shooters. nine0017
FPS
First impression: “I’m back in 2000!.. I’m 13 again and this is my first time playing Quake II. Wooden fingers do not obey the habit, they miss the keys, I have forgotten how to jump, shoot and generally feel like a bot.
Actually, things are not so bad. The unusual layout of the keys makes itself felt only at first. The same WASD, only the rows of buttons are not shifted relative to each other. Ten keys are enough for all types of weapons. Let’s add a couple of modifiers to this (BCHK and the «11» key are ideal in the role of Alt and Shift) — and we get at least 20 keys at hand, not counting WASD. nine0017
There is a specific technique in shooters, which is generally called «jumping». The ability to make non-standard jumps is highly valued and can save the player’s life more than once. Nostromo facilitates such jumps with the help of macros.![]()
RTS
Blizzard games remain the most relevant strategies. The gameplay of Starcraft II and Warcraft III is very similar, let’s take them as test subjects. I am far from being a progamer, so I will judge from the level of an ordinary player. nine0017
Compared to shooters, getting used to Nostromo in RTS can take an order of magnitude longer. Firstly, in strategies, the hand gets used to “flying” over the keyboard, and not lying in one place. Secondly, we are faced with a completely different approach to management. WASD on a regular keyboard is still the same set of 4 keys on the Nostromo. These are the main control keys for FPS and the whole ensemble is built around them.
Key strategies will require much more. At least five, or even all ten keys for hot buildings and groups. At least 5-7 more to recruit troops in these buildings. And another 5-10 to control the special abilities of some units. And the problem is not even to fit all the keys on the keypad, but rather to keep all the binds in your head and get used to them.![]()
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Add to this the very high dynamism of the strategies themselves — you need to quickly assess the situation and make decisions just as quickly — and we get a very tense situation. Therefore, it will take a lot of patience to get the hang of using Nostromo in strategies.
MMO
From lightning-fast shooters and very fast strategies, we move on to more measured online games. This is where the Razer Nostromo excels, and here’s why. Most MMO games require a lot of different actions from the player. In World of Warcraft, for example, the number of hotkeys for one character can exceed fifty. How to deal with such an abundance of binds? nine0017
I will give just one of the possible options:
The main unit consists of 14 keys. We subtract 4 for movement. Let 3 more keys be modifiers (Ctrl, Alt, Shift). There are 9 keys left, which in combination with modifiers give 9×4 = 36 possible hotkeys. We add one more layout to this, we hang the layout switching on the joystick and we already have 72 keys.![]()
This is enough for the head.
The advantage of Nostromo in MMO is that online games are not so dynamic and a large number of combinations do not put pressure on the psyche. You can more safely press a few keys, you can use the joystick without fear of making an accidental press. nine0017
RPG
This is already from the category of «We have fun.» I had Diablo II and its new reincarnation, Torchlight, at my fingertips. In RPG, keyboard requirements are minimal, but I liked one thing. Developers are very fond of assigning keys so that the player uses the ENTIRE keyboard. It is clear that this was done for logical reasons: I nventory is opened with the key I , S kills — with the key S , and so on. But playing the piano like this, with your fingers constantly reaching from one edge of the keyboard to the other, is a little tiring. And in some RPGs, hotkeys are tightly wired and there is no way to configure them.![]()
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Nostromo comes to the rescue. We do not need WASD, so we reassign all keys to I, S, B, … and so on until the end. The hand lies quietly on the stand and does not move anywhere. You can enjoy the process.
Consoles
While testing the previous genres, I was constantly tormented by one question: “Why is a joystick needed here?” There is only one association with this controller — good old 8-bit games. Of course, the joy of playing with a real joystick and Nostromo are very different. But for the sake of experimenting with the keypad, you can play old-school masterpieces. Worm Jim says hello from far away 90’s!
Summing up
It’s hard to be a hybrid. Game keypads are relatively new and not very popular devices. In this regard, they have some flaws, which, for sure, will disappear with time, when these devices evolve into something more. However, keypads have already taken their niche among gaming accessories.![]()
Nostromo is one of the best representatives of its kind.
Drawbacks
Let’s open them right away. Nostromo has an ill-conceived moment with auto-changing profiles, which is described at the beginning of the review. This is not a critical flaw, but an unpleasant trifle. Another not very clear solution is scrolling. On the one hand, it is absolutely not needed on a keypad, because we always have a mouse in our second hand. On the other hand, it does not interfere with games and behaves very quietly. Why it was attached to the keypad is a mystery. Retraining yourself to scroll pages with your left hand is hard and meaningless work. And the most cardinal and incorrigible drawback — Nostromo is asymmetrical and is intended only for right-handers. nine0017
Benefits
Compact and ergonomic. The keypad takes up little space on the table and can be placed to the left of the main keyboard without compromising the working space. All keys are at hand and the convenience of using them is only a matter of time and getting used to.![]()
The Nostromo is designed as a gaming device, and it shows its potential in games. The player has a very large scope for customization individually for each game. During the game, nothing will interfere with the process. No extra keys, no accidental Win key presses. Let’s also write down the correct handling of several clicks at the same time as pluses, which is relevant for FPS and MMO. The price of the device is quite affordable and will also come down as a plus. nine0017
Total
Fans of FPS and MMO Nostromo will have a great time. For strategies, this is more of a pain than a relief. And for everything else — fresh impressions of using the new device. Nostromo is a home instrument that will look great next to your personal PC and is sure to attract the attention of others with its appearance alone. Getting used to will take some time and will pay off with convenience and a new look at the game. The product is not for the masses, but rather for fans and geeks, which, however, will find its buyer.![]()
