I had the same thoughts as you at first with this.
I think that the best result is with track IR, but you can definitely setup hat switch activity with this as well but you will need to research setting and saving views.
It's not difficult once you understand how to do it, but it can be a little confusing getting the understanding in the first place.
Search the 777 forums and you will find the answer. I would explain it myself, but I'm drunk and it just feels too hard.
CS.