Dual-Axis Thumb Joystick Rocker Switch Potentiometer Module (KY-023)

Dual-Axis Thumb Joystick Rocker Switch Potentiometer Module (KY-023) is an analog directional controller module modeled after standard Sony PlayStation (PS2) controller thumbsticks. Built with two independent 10kΩ orthogonal potentiometers for X and Y analog coordinate tracking and an integrated tactile pushbutton activated by pressing down on the thumbstick, it provides microcontrollers with precise 2-axis proportional position telemetry and digital selection.

Key Features:

• Dual-Axis Proportional Control: Two independent 10kΩ potentiometers provide continuous analog voltage feedback for X and Y axes.
• Integrated Tactile Pushbutton: Pressing down on the thumbstick actuates an internal momentary digital switch (Z-axis).
• Auto-Centering Spring Return: Sturdy internal spring returns the thumbstick automatically to the exact center point when released.
• Ergonomic Rubber Thumb Grip: Comfortable textured rubber cap prevents finger slippage during extended gameplay or robotic piloting.
• Standard 5-Pin Interface: Clean 2.54mm header breakout requires only 2 analog inputs and 1 digital input on the host MCU.
• Wide Controller Compatibility: Easily connects to Arduino, ESP32, STM32, and Raspberry Pi (via ADC).

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5.0V DC
• Potentiometer Resistance: 10 kΩ ±20% (Linear taper)
• Analog Output Voltage: Proportional 0V to VCC (approx. 2.5V at center rest)
• Pushbutton Contact Rating: Up to 50 mA at 12V DC
• Operating Current: ~0.5 mA at 5V
• Operating Temperature: -10°C to +70°C

Mechanical Specifications:

• PCB Structure: Double-sided through-hole FR-4 circuit board
• Thumbstick Material: Molded ABS shaft with textured silicone thumb cap
• Mounting: 4 × M3 corner mounting holes
• Weight: Approximately 12 grams

Dimensions:

• Length: 40.0 mm
• Width: 26.0 mm
• Height: 32.0 mm

Pinout and Wiring:

• GND: Ground Reference (0V)
• +5V: 3.3V – 5.0V DC Main Power Supply Input
• VRx: X-Axis Analog Output Voltage (connects to MCU Analog Pin)
• VRy: Y-Axis Analog Output Voltage (connects to MCU Analog Pin)
• SW: Z-Axis Pushbutton Digital Output (Active Low, connects to MCU Digital Pin)

Datasheet Reference:

• Datasheet Reference: Consult standard 2-Axis thumb joystick potentiometer ratings and analog ADC calibration guides.

Commonly Used in:

• Robotic pan-tilt camera gimbals and motorized crane control
• RC car, drone, and mobile rover directional steering remotes
• Custom arcade game machines and retro gaming consoles
• Industrial crane and machinery proportional speed controllers

Applications:

• Proportional velocity and direction control for dual-motor mobile robots
• 2-Axis camera aiming and target tracking
• Menu cursor navigation and selection in embedded graphical UIs
• Computer mouse and gamepad emulation on USB-capable microcontrollers

Equivalent Models:

• PS2 Game Joystick Module
• SparkFun Thumb Joystick Breakout
• Adafruit 2-Axis Analog Joystick

Package Includes:

• 1 × Dual-Axis Thumb Joystick Rocker Switch Potentiometer Module (KY-023)