PRODUCT

Control made simple, even in the toughest conditions with Hand Controller (HC series)

Date: 21/10/2025

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As autonomous systems become more common in industrial operations, the need for reliable manual control hasn’t gone away, especially when working in unpredictable or extreme environments where equipment must perform under pressure, dust, water, vibration, cold, or heat. The HC Series was engineered with one goal: to put safe, precise, and intuitive command in the operator’s hand, no matter the conditions.

Hand controller purpose-built for harsh environments

The HC Series is not just another hand controller, it’s a field-proven solution built to handle the extremes. With its rugged aluminum construction, IP67-rated sealing, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), it delivers high performance in demanding environments.

APEM picture: Hand controller purpose-built for harsh environments

Available in two sizes, small (up to 7 components) and wide (up to 11 components) this control pad is a plug-and-play control solution that simplifies integration in mobile and remote systems.

Download CAD files and datasheet

APEM_HC_series_models

Technical features to perform under pressure

Customization at the core

Every application has its own specific demands, and the control interface is built to adapt. One of its key advantages is the ability to integrate qualified components directly from APEM’s extensive portfolio. This means you can include the exact switches, pushbuttons, joysticks, or safety elements your system requires.

Customization options include:

  • Layout flexibility: number and placement of pushbuttons

  • Optional switch guards to prevent accidental actuation

  • Personalized front label with colors, symbols, and logos

Technical features to perform under pressure_Picture

Features

Details

Housing

6082 T6 aluminum

Storage temperature

-40°C to +85°C

Sealing

IP67

Operating temperature

-40°C to +85°C

Cable Length

Up to 5 meters

Certifications

Product designed to meet MiL-STD-810G

Why the HC is the right choice for your remote operations?

game-pad-like-design

The gamepad-like design of this solution allows the operator to work comfortably for long hours.

all-in-one-control

All-in-one control solution with centralized functions, made possible by flexible component integration.

plug-and-play-installation

Simplifies the integration in control systems thanks to plug-and-play installation: available in USB, CANopen, J1939 and analogue versions

Manual controller is ideal for remote-controlled applications

The HC Series is a natural fit for operators working in remote-controlled applications during challenging conditions:

  • Autonomous tank and Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV)

  • Civil/military drone and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)

  • Mine clearance equipment

  • Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV)

  • Remote-controlled excavator

  • Remote-controlled robots in mobile equipment for warehouse logistics, agriculture, construction and mining

Applications banner HC business news

Expert’s perspective

The new ruggedized hand controller by APEM is designed for use in harsh and extreme conditions. Manufactured from aerospace grade aluminum and qualified to the highest military standards, it utilizes our market leading HMIs into a plug-and-play solution. Customizable to meet your requirements and available in CANopen, J1939, USB or analogue outputs - it can be integrated seamlessly into your application. Using APEMs expertise we can save you time and money by providing a field-proven solution, off the shelf.

Dave Flaherty – Business development manager for Defense

Dave

Get hands-on with the HC series

Looking for a durable hand controller for harsh conditions? Contact our team to explore how this remote control pad can simplify your remote operations.

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