Basically, the keyboard and mouse are used to control the games, but there are many games in which it will be much more convenient to use another manipulator - a joystick. You can buy it at any computer store or make it yourself, which is quite easy.
Instructions
Step 1
Find on the Internet the electrical diagram of the joysticks that are connected to the Game-port of the sound card of a personal computer. Variable resistors or optocouplers can be used in the circuit. Choose the one for which parts are easier to purchase. It is worth noting that optocouplers can be removed from an old mechanical mouse, which will save on purchases. Before using them, check their functionality with a tester.
Step 2
Find a housing for your joysticks. You can make it yourself or just take joysticks from an old console. They are comfortable enough, and at the same time it will not be a pity to break them. Disassemble the structure to get to the elements of the circuits. This must be done carefully so as not to damage the plastic, which can crumble due to strong pressure. You will need two old joysticks.
Step 3
Take the first joystick and, according to the electrical diagram, install two optocouplers in it. One of them will be responsible for moving forward and backward, and the second will adjust the left-right position. Attach the LEDs to the moving part of the joystick, and install the photodiodes on the stationary part.
Step 4
Use the second joystick like a gearbox. When moving it to the extreme positions, the corresponding contacts will close. The result will be 4 positions for 4 buttons.
Step 5
Install custom connectors and homemade connection ports on each joystick. The first will be connected to the Game-port of the personal computer, and the second to the first. Check for proper connections to the wiring diagram for the proprietary joystick model.
Step 6
Call each item with a tester. Only then can you connect the device to a computer and test it in practice. Launch any games using these manipulators, customize their work and enjoy your own invention.
