Vista and Microsoft Hardware Plus IntelliPoint, a Match Made in Redmond Heaven

If you are running Microsoft hardware in combination with Windows Vista, then you shouldn�t act shy towards the IntelliPoint software. The Redmond company revealed that end users would be missing out on a range of functionalities by simply letting the operating system deal with the device drivers automatically. Windows Vista will detect all pieces of added hardware and install them by default, but such a process takes the IntelliPoint software out of the equation. Microsoft Product Manager Nick White, revealed that such an action would deprive the user of some very handy "features [that] add functionality not only to those who may have problems with the fine print on some sites, but give the hardware more usability for the everyday user as well as the power user and gamer."

IntelliPoint software adds a magnifier to Vista, along with an Instant Viewer, Precision Booster and streamlined access to Flip 3D, Windows Gadgets, Quick-Launch and Windows Live Call. The functionality of all these features can be extended and controlled via the hardware through IntelliPoint. "Although Windows Vista has a built-in magnifier that enlarges text and icons for easier viewing, the IntelliPoint software acts more like a real magnifying glass. You can select the size of the magnifying window to encompass either a small section of a document, Web page, or photo. The size is customizable by dragging the window to your preferred size. The size you select will be remembered for future use. You can also change the magnification level from 1.5x to 5x", White revealed.

Instant Viewer is a feature similar in functionality to the Alt + Tab keyboard shortcut. It can be accessed via a click on the mouse wheel, and Instant Viewer will display a list of all the opened windows. And on top of the Instant Viewer, IntelliPoint also streamlines access to Flip3D, and offer support for Windows Gadget, Quick-Launch and Windows Live Call buttons. "If you're a gamer and your mouse supports this, Precision Booster will increase or decrease the speed of the pointer for improved accuracy. You'll be able to move around the screen much faster. A quick press and hold increases the speed until released, or just press and release the assigned button to toggle the speed up and then press and release again to resume normal speed. The hot keys on the Microsoft keyboards and mice are fully customizable to work with the IntelliPoint software", White added.