Software

Installation & Update

The CD simply holds a MSI (Microsoft Installer) file. There is no autostart, no interface or flash menu. I was a bit suprised at the lack of a simple interface which gives you access to an electronic manual or maybe direct access to the Fanatec website. Such a small interface would also help convey the message of quality, which is a big selling point of the Headshot Controller.

Setup Process:


Automatic Update:
Once the software installation is completed, you are greeted with an automatic update client. This is a great little feature and you can also take a close look at the improvements of each version. Installing the update is identical to that of the emul8or software.

emul8or

The software places a little "F" in your system tray, through which the software can be easily accessed. Upon double clicking it, I was surprised to find myself at the Mouse Properties window of the OS. Fanatec decided to add a Tab to this window instead of supplying their own software, which is certainly a good choice. The emul8or software gives you access to all the included features of the mouse, but still leaves the control of the generic features like double click speed among other things to the OS. The software is made up of three categories. The first is called "LED and Resolution" and does exactly that. You can set the color of each light source (left or right arch base and mouse) to either pulsate in the given color or show a solid one. You may even choose the speed of the pulse or the intensity of the light. Such customization of LEDs is unrivaled and you can create some sweet effects which will draw serious attention at a LAN party. You may also set the DPI and joystick sensitivity within this category.


The second category covers any programmable features of the Headshot mouse. You may even set intrusive keyboard commands like deleting items, so handle this section with care and Fanatec does sure to point this out during installation. You may also set the normal double speed or more unusual loop or parallel click speeds in this section. The last category covers profiles. These are text based configuration files, which you can create for seperate applications. That way you have quick access to specific settings for specific titles. Fanatec has taken a refreshing approach to the software side of pointing devices and has opted to refrain from using fancy graphics to keep the interface clean and functional.