Thumb Controls

9 Series

Have a small space that requires fingertip navigation? APEM Thumb controls are the ideal solution when you need to control several functions with one finger on a reduced panel size, such as the face of a larger joystick. APEM also offers an illuminated series to clearly identify the status of the joystick in environments with low visibility. This ergonomic, Hall effect joystick provides an almost unlimited lifecycle to help prevent your application from requiring maintenance, causing downtime in your application.

The HS Series miniature joystick is a single pole, MOM-OFF-MOM micro switching joystick. Numerous button styles are available and the HS series may be specified for 2-way, 4-way and 5-way operation.

The TW Series Thumbwheel is a minimum width, low profile joystick that provides smooth, precise fingertip control in one axis. Featuring non-contacting Hall effect technology for long life performance, the TW series offers excellent proportional control, stable output, long life and is designed for panel mount applications and joystick integration. The TW series includes a wide range of configuration options including voltage output range, wheel color and style.

The NV series is 4 or 5-direction switch-based joystick (4 directions + pushbutton). Contrary to most navigators currently on the market, the NV series provides enhanced tactile feedback in 4 directions plus pushbutton. This results in improved haptics and extremely precise control associated with a compact size (bushing dia. 16 mm). With its chrome plated metal case and IP69K sealing level, the NV series withstands all types of adversity including water, frost, dust, sand, and hydrocarbons. Designed for the harshest environments, the NV series is extremely robust and maintains its tactile effect even during excessive shock or vibrations.

The CW Series is a revolutionary Hall effect control wheel providing proportional control in one miniature axis. A spring return device, the CW is available with your choice of linear output options and wheel colors. Ideal applications include joystick, gamepad, armrest and panel mount integration.

U.S. Patent #D767,685 S
U.S. Patent #D740,886 S

The APEM FR series is a single axis 3-position thumb controller, offering a Forward-Neutral-Reverse operation ideal for material handling, construction and agriculture applications. Featuring contactless Hall effect technology, the FR series is available with single or redundant outputs and is environmentally sealed to IP67.

The FR series is designed for applications in extreme temperatures and is offered in a wide range of configuration options including voltage output range, handle color and mounting styles.

HR series thumbwheels uses proven non-contacting Hall effect technology, providing long life, precise linear voltage output. Designed for joystick handle and control grip integration, the HR series miniature size enables system designers to optimize the ergonomics and efficiency of their control systems.

HR - infinite wheel

Building on the experience gained with the HR series, this version meets the needs for greater precision and comfort when driving special vehicles in difficult environments (dust, humidity, cold, etc.).

Integrated on a joystick or control panel, the infinite wheel function replaces the encoder with a quadrature output , making it easier to browse menus or use tools with precision. The end user gains a control tool that is reliable, ergonomic and easy to handle: a service life of over one million cycles, a flush-fitting design with infinite scrolling (24 detents per rotation), and a soft-touch elastomer membrane.The wheel is backlit to maintain maximum visibility even when working in dusty or poorly lit environments.

The TS Series Thumbstick is a proportional two axis joystick in a miniature package. Featuring non-contacting Hall effect technology for long life performance, the TS Series Thumbstick is available with multiple linear output options including single and dual (redundant) outputs. It is similar in size and operation to gamepad controls, but in a rugged industrial package. Typical applications include pendant and remote controls as well as a joystick handle and arm rest integration.

U.S. Patent #D816,169
U.S. Patent #D732,047 S

U.S. Patent #D734,138 S

HR - Friction Hold

HR series proportional thumbwheels with friction hold allow for ultra-precise movement while permitting the user to hold the selection in a set position. Developed to equip the handles of joysticks, remote controls and armrests in harsh environments, they are available in 2 friction versions and with 2 different actuators. Backlighting option is available.