Thumb Joystick PW30

Thumb joystick/rocker with premium haptics for analogue single-axis control

The PW30 thumb rocker series is a single-axis joystick that combines the feel of a rocker switch with the sensing technology of an industrial joystick. Thanks to its low profile and small space requirement (panel depth ≤ 21 mm), the PW30 can be easily integrated into portable devices, panels or handgrip joysticks and is suitable both for harsh industrial environments and for precise control tasks, for example in medical equipment.

The series offers both potentiometric and Hall-effect versions, each providing a proportional analogue output signal. The potentiometric version uses a conductive plastic potentiometer (standard 10 kΩ, with other resistance values such as 1 kΩ, 2 kΩ, 5 kΩ or 20 kΩ available) and achieves a service life of approx. 2 million operations. The Hall-effect version provides a ratiometric output signal (typically 0.5…4.5 V at 5 V supply), a service life of approx. 5 million operations and fulfills protection class IP65, making it suitable for more demanding environmental conditions.

On the mechanical side, several parameters can be configured to match the haptic feel to the application: the deflection angle is ±15…±19°, the operating torque is 24…30 mNm, and the rocker is generally non-detent with spring return. Depending on the version, the return can be to the center position, to an end position, or with increased spring force for a more pronounced tactile feedback.

There are three different types of handles available

• double-hump,
• flat, and
• extended

 
Each with a smooth surface. This allows the operator interface to be tailored to thumb support, design specifications or ergonomic requirements. In addition, the potentiometric version can optionally be supplied with a center tap, as well as customized resistance values, while the Hall-effect version is available on request with parallel, inverse or fully redundant outputs, including separate supplies for two Hall sensors.

With this combination of high-quality mechanics, tuneable haptics, multiple rocker shapes and selectable sensing technology, the PW30 is particularly well suited for single-axis control tasks in handheld controllers, operator panels and joystick grips where precise analogue command input and limited installation space are key requirements.