Desktop Joystick MACHIV

Desktop joystick with configurable desktop housing

The 'MACHIV' series of desktop joysticks is designed for applications where controls need to be housed in a single desktop unit. Depending on the model, the rectangular housing offers the option of integrating two or four buttons into its surface. This enables additional functions to be operated directly on the joystick.

Depending on the axis configuration, potentiometric and Hall-based sensor variants are available. P- and U-type conductive plastic potentiometers offer resistance values of 5 kΩ and 10 kΩ, respectively, and independent linearity of ±1%. Depending on the type, they have a service life of up to approximately 10 million actuations. Hall sensors with a 5 V supply, a ratiometric output of 2.5 V, and a typical service life of one million actuations are suitable for applications involving electronic evaluation. The MACHIV therefore covers both classic, passively evaluated potentiometer solutions and modern Hall outputs (e.g. 0...5 V or 0.25...4.75 V).

In terms of mechanics, the joystick has a travel angle of ±30° on the X and Y axes. For rotatable knobs (Z-axis, third axis), the deflection angle is ±45°. All axes are equipped with a spring return mechanism that reliably returns the knob to the centre position, achieving a return accuracy of ±2%. The operating force of less than 60 mN enables precise control that does not cause fatigue, even during prolonged use.
 
A wide range of handle variants is available to suit different operating concepts. Versions are available with or without a rotatable knob and with or without pushbuttons. There are also 3-axis handles with none, one or two integrated pushbuttons, each with a different geometry. Further pushbuttons can also be integrated into the top of the housing via the housing variants (types 0 to 6). This allows central movement functions, additional functions and enable buttons, if necessary, to be combined in a single desktop unit.

The MACHIV is also available with a USB interface upon request. This allows the joystick to be connected directly to a PC or control system with a USB port. If a different joystick interior is preferred, joysticks from the 812 and TRY100 series can also be used with this desktop housing. This allows a variety of sensors and operating concepts to be implemented on a single housing platform.