Signals and controls
Analog joystick module
Read two axes and a pushbutton from an inexpensive thumb stick.
What it does
Two potentiometers measure position; a separate switch closes when the stick is pressed. Spring centering rarely produces an exact midpoint.
Connections and compatibility
Connect supply and ground, VRx and VRy to analog inputs, and SW to an input with a pull-up. Supply it from the ADC’s compatible voltage.
Choosing one
A common two-axis starter-kit module is sufficient. Check that the pins are soldered and identify the actual labels.
Common mistakes
Add a center dead zone and calibrate endpoints. Replacing 5 V power with 3.3 V is necessary when its outputs feed a 3.3 V-only ADC.
Use it in a tutorial
- Using an analog joystick module — Read a thumb stick, calibrate its resting center, and add a dead zone for stable controls.