Using PointerFocus Console

This article will show you how to use console to control PointerFocus functions from other applications.

From version 2.5, PointerFocus supports console to switch its functions. (You can contact us for the download of this beta version.) You can make PointerFocus cooperate with many devices and applications. First you need to enable this option in the options window.

There are some text notes below this option to explain how to use the console. Please take these text notes as the references when you set other applications or devices.

I will show you some examples of using PointerFocus console in the following sections:


Windows shortcuts

You can create the shortcut of PointerFocus console on your desktop and assign Hot Key to it. Then you got a global hot key for PointerFocus.

Open the PointerFocus installed folder. you can see the PointerFocusConsole.

Please note that, if you turn off the option "Show file extension" in the folder's options. You may see "PointerFocusConsole" and "PointerFocusConsole.exe" two files in the folder. The first one is the exe file, please select this file instead of the second one. (the second file is the configuration file of the exe).

Right click on the file then select "Create shortcut". Then move the created shortcut file to your desktop.





Right click on the shortcut file on your desktop then select "Properties" to edit the shortcut file.



Edit the Target of the shortcut to add the parameter which you need to pass to the console. And you can also assign the "Shortcut key" to the shortcut. The Hot Key can be used globally.



You can also drag this shortcut to the Windows Taskbar.





Drag the shortcut to the front of the taskbar. So it will be assigned the system level Hot Key like "Win + number". for example , Win +1 will invoke the first shortcut. These Hot Keys are also globally.

Repeat the above steps, you can creates shortcuts and hot keys for switching all PointerFocus functions.



Programmable Buttons on Mouse and Keyboard

There are some input devices which have programmable buttons. The driver of these devices often offer options which allow you to assign functions for these programmable buttons.

I have a Logitech G600 mouse which have many programmable buttons on the left side of the mouse. So I can set these buttons to control PointerFocus.

First you need to download and install the "G Hub" driver then open its settings window. Select your device (e.g. G600 Mouse). Navigate to the Assignments panel and click "SYSTEM" tab then select to "ADD APPLICATION".



Add the application "PointerFocusConsole.exe" and add the arguments.



After added the application you need to drag the item to the button you want to assign to.



Now you have a button to control the PointerFocus highlight without any conflict with other application's hot keys. It's usable anytime anywhere and right on your finger.

Repeat the above steps you can assign all the control buttons for your mouse.

It's almost the same steps for the Keyboard's programmable buttons. For Logitech game devices they use the same driver application (G Hub software) to set the options. So you just need to set and drag.

More software and devices

Stream Deck:


Stream Deck from elgato is a device which have programmable buttons which you can set very easily. (You may need to install "Advanced Launcher" plugin from its driver application.)

Touch Portal:

Touch Portal offers a solution which let you control your computer from your mobile device. You can use your smart phone as a programmable keyboard for your computer.