Name:  - P8000 Command Pad
Saitek Description:
P8000 is another truly unique product from Saitek enabling users to learn games and application software more easily. This is achieved by pressing icons on specially designed command cards that represent actions and shortcuts in games and applications. The versatile and easy-to-use P8000 is ideal for your web-browsing, office and gaming needs
Key features: Quick and easy Internet browsing. Fully programmable gamepad. Freedom to use on lap or desktop. Compatible with Windows 98, SE, ME. USB connector.
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5/12/2001 - This controller offers several unique features that simply set a standard and are going to firmly establish a place for itself in the gaming, business, and household arenas. Get ready to hear me recommend this controller several times throughout the review, because I simply think the possible uses are endless.
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LAZ Review Breakdown
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91.7
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| First Impression |
When I first saw it, I was scratching my head… thinking this is unlike anything I have seen before. Now you have to appreciate the fact that we get a lot of controllers, and when I see something totally different - the product has an additional attention grab on me. |
9.5
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| Software Installation |
The software installation went without any problems. The interface was very easy and intuitive. |
9.0
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| Software Controller Interface |
The configuration software for this controller is remarkably easy to use. When you consider that the controller enables you to easily program the start up of any program you have, plus put in web site URL's, and more - it all sounds great… but how hard is it to do?
Before I talk about programming this unit, I want to be very clear with you that you DO NOT HAVE to program anything if you don't want. Directly after installing and configuring the controller, the defaults enable you to perform several common operations that you would normally have to hunt around your Operating System for… all at the simple press on an intuitive graphical button. These operations include everything from normal Browser actions (like going to the Next or Previous pages); opening your word processor, email, calculator programs; several email options; and this just names of view of the things that are available right out of the box - with no additional programming. This ability makes the unit very appealing in an office and home environments in ALL skill levels, not to mention us gamers.
I dove right in to the configuration options (like I always do), and just started clicking stuff to find out what it did. This simple method worked fine and I didn't have any problems figuring out what functions performed particular operations. Make sure that you are not scared to click on something when you see it AND make sure you use your right mouse button to view menu options - then select the appropriate option. You can click and drag the controller picture around to get any view, then simply click the button option to begin a program selection.
When you think you have exhausted all of your commands and won't have enough, remember that you can program a complete second set of commands that are executed when you combine the 'pressed icon' with the Shift button. |
9.0
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| Game Included |
To aid in the creation of your own custom templates, Saitek included a shareware version of Paint Shop Pro. |
7.0
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| Help Instructions |
The controller comes with a nice paper manual as well as help from the Companion CD. I deferred to both forms of help a couple of times and they each helped me get to the next step. There are adequate pictures found throughout to help you identify the topic being described.
Saitek maintains the most updated manual and drivers online on their web site, in addition to technical support. |
9.0
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| Comfort |
As a gaming controller - it is different, but effective. I would say that it is average as a controller, but when you throw in the press icon pad to launch various options - it is in it's own league. Simply outstanding! |
9.0
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| Construction (Quality) |
Saitek delivers some of it's best quality with this product. It is built very well and withstood my constant tweaking and messing with it without any problems. The unit sits very nicely beside your keyboard and the rubber pads located at the bottom kept it in one place quite nicely. |
9.5
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| Looks |
This little unit looks great! When I consider how effective Saitek enables you to locate your options, I found it very visually stimulating. It is so much better than anything I can think of for finding out what 'button' option does what, because you simply look at an icon - just like on your desktop. There is no confusion here… no having to remember what option does what.
I can't say enough about how much I appreciate that they include a template that allows you to create your own visual icons - then simply put the template right over the buttons! I spent a lot of time creating my own custom template and it turned out GREAT! You can even go out to the Saitek website and download several templates that are already created for popular games - and these custom game templates are OUTSTANDING! |
9.9
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| Value (price for what you get) |
When you consider all of the things this controller does and it's price - it may be the best value of any controller on the market today! I know that is a bold statement, but this thing is versatile and very effective. |
9.9
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| Recommend to Others |
I am a seasoned computer professional, and I found it extremely helpful and after having one - would not be without it. I think strategy gamers are going to absolutely love it. And I highly recommend it for moms, grandmas, and anyone who is new to computers. Now let's see, I say that it is good for pro's and newbees, and nearly everything in between… I guess I am simply saying that this product is going to be turning up all over the place. Go get one! |
9.9
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RECOMMENDATIONS to the Vendor
LAZ
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Figure out a way to allow it to work with other controllers at the same time.
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