Where can I find low-profile multi-axis rocker switches or joysticks?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around finding low-profile multi-axis rocker switches or joysticks, with a specific emphasis on components that have a handle height of no more than 3/4 inch. Participants explore various sources and alternatives for these components, including suggestions for manufacturers and product modifications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests sources for low-profile multi-axis rocker switches or joysticks, noting that they have only found one option from Penny Giles.
  • Another participant suggests checking 3Dconnexion and Happ Controls as potential sources, although they acknowledge these may not meet the exact specifications.
  • A different participant points to Allied Electronics as a comprehensive source and provides a specific product link along with its datasheet.
  • One suggestion involves modifying a cheap joystick by cutting off the handle, although this is met with skepticism regarding its suitability for production use.
  • A participant expresses interest in a Grayhill joystick but raises concerns about its durability for outdoor use, particularly regarding its IP rating.
  • Another participant mentions the unavailability of off-the-shelf membrane keypads and questions the feasibility of custom options for small quantities.
  • A humorous suggestion is made to look for obsolete Mattel Intellivision consoles as a source for basic joystick internals.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on a specific product or solution. Multiple competing views and suggestions remain, with varying opinions on the suitability of different options.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty regarding the durability and specifications of suggested products, particularly concerning outdoor use and production readiness. There are also unresolved questions about the practicality of custom solutions versus off-the-shelf options.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals seeking low-profile control interfaces for applications in production environments, as well as those interested in alternative solutions for joystick functionality.

Averagesupernova
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Can anyone point me to a source of multi-axis rocker switches? Similar to a joystick, but a lower profile. A joystick is acceptable too, but most have too high of a profile. The handle should ideally be no higher than about 3/4 inch. I've tried the obvious sources through www.globalspec.com and have done some googling but come up with only one 2 axis rocker from Penny Giles. Thanks in advance.
 
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Allied Electronics has just about everything.

How about this?
http://www.alliedelec.com/Search/ProductDetail.asp?SKU=948-0343&SEARCH=&ID=&DESC=04A%2DB01&R=948%2D0343&sid=47476980905E17F&tab=overview#tab

Data sheets:
http://www.alliedelec.com/Images/Products/Datasheets/948-0343.pdf
 
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You could also just obtain a cheap joystick and cut the handle off...
 
That one from Grayhill looks pretty promising. I do recall seeing it while looking for another product and couldn't remember where I had seen it. I don't see an IP rating on it though and it needs to live outdoors. There are joysticks out there that have IP ratings suitable for being exposed to a high pressure water jet. I would prefer one like that. I don't think the Grayhill joystick looks good enough to survive outdoors. I could be wrong, I'll look into it.
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Danger, this switch is to be used in production. I'm not ready to cut the handle off of anything just yet.
 
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Membrane keypads generally aren't available off-the-shelf, but if anyone knows of anything I'd appreciate it. I'm not sure what tool-up costs are and if it would be worth it for smaller quantities. A membrane keypad with 4 keys could certainly replace a joystick.
 
Ah, I thought that this was just a personal project. How about trying to find a source for those obsolete Mattel Intellivision consols? The controllers were just basic joystick internals, but with a disk on top rather than a stick. How many do you need?
 

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