Map the Scroll-Lock function to a convenient button on your joystick.
Normally, I would use the Hat switch in Snap mode, but when you need Pan view, click and release your mapped joystick button to toggle to Panning mode.
You can then Pan smoothly with the Hat switch and the view stays in position.
To quickly get back to front & centre view, again click your mapped joystick button to toggle into Snap mode. Now quickly flip and release the Hat switch (in any direction) and the view Snaps back to front.
Important Tip! The Pan mode is a bit too slow for combat. You can smooth Pan more quickly by editing the VIEWUI.XML file.
At the top of this file under <ViewUI> the second item is RotationRate="1.2". (1.2 is my current value; the default value is much lower).
Try 1.2 or a small incremental change and Save. You will now be much happier with the speed of smooth Hat switch panning.
I am, however, a certified TrackIR addict. (Try to take it away and I'll go Charlie Sheen on you). I'm using an old TrackIR 3 with the Vector Expansion and the latest drivers.
If you can score an older model 3 or 4 they are well worth it!
Regards,
Dudley