As the need for joysticks continues to increase, designers are going through more pressure to meet the needs of clients while keeping the costs low. Advances in computer processing capabilities require input accessories to match the performance. Present-day joysticks such as the hall effect joysticks must have high sensitivity, better accuracy, smoother operation, low power consumption, multi-function features as well as a custom size. These requirements are especially important for industrial environments where the proper control of heavy equipment is paramount in order to prevent accidents and loss of productivity.
When focusing on industrial applications, joysticks play a very important role for equipment and machines. That is why you need to understand the type of joystick you plan on buying before making a purchase. One of the leading types of industrial joysticks is the hall effect joysticks.
The hall effect industrial electric joysticks use non-contact devices which measure the magnetic fields. The hall effect sensor acts as a potentiometer depending on the change in a magnetic field. The main difference, however, is the fact that hall effect industrial joysticks eliminate degradation of the core elements since there is no physical wiper arm like in a potentiometer joystick. In this joystick, a magnet coupled internally to the end of the shaft is positioned in close proximity with the chip but the two components never make contact.
How they work
The hall effect industrial joysticks rely on a magnetic system. As a result, they have a significant advantage over the potentiometer joysticks because they never experience wear resulting from physical contact with the sensor. While these joysticks are used in the same industrial applications as the potentiometer joysticks, they excel in areas with excessive shock or vibrations. They are thus the ideal choice for backhoe loaders, mining trucks, diggers, cranes and excavators.
The main drawback of the hall effect industrial joysticks is that their performance can be affected by the available voltage supply. Most of these joysticks require a 5VDC whereas the potentiometer joystick can work with a variety of voltages. It is also good to note that the magnetic field changes over time. This in turn impacts the performance of the joystick. The magnetic field may also be affected if the joystick is used in an environment that is either too hot or too cold. The variance in the magnetic field will cause the joystick to ‘drift’ as well as affect the output voltage. This may lead to variances that impact performance. Keeping the drawbacks in mind can help anticipate variances when using the hall effect joystick.
All things considered, the hall effect industrial joysticks are some of the best joysticks you can invest in. They are available in a wide range of sizes and designs. They also last longer.
Hall Effect Joysticks
