Understanding How To Streamline Your Company

What To Consider When Buying An Industrial Joystick

17 May 2018

Carrie Gomez

Industrial joysticks can be installed on a variety of industrial products, including construction equipment and warehouse machinery. The joystick is designed to help increase the precision of the individual operating the machinery or equipment. If you are looking to purchase an industrial joystick, there are many factors you need to consider. Here are three of the most important elements that you want to consider as you look to buy an industrial joystick. 

How Sensitive the Joystick Is

One of the first things that you want to consider when you are buying an industrial precision joystick is just how sensitive the joystick is. Some joysticks are designed to be incredibly sensitive. If the operator moves the joystick ever so slight, the machinery or equipment will also move. Other joysticks are not as sensitive. You may have to push the joystick far in one direction to get your machinery or equipment to move. Having a sensitive joystick typically allows for finer manipulation of the equipment you are moving. But it also increases the chances of an operator pushing too hard or too quickly and making a mistake. On the flip side, less sensitive joysticks typically don't allow for finer manipulation and movement, but there is less user error involved with them. 

What Elements the Joystick is Designed to Withstand

Another key factor that you need to consider as you go about buying an industrial joystick is what elements the joystick is designed to withstand. Every work environment is different. If a joystick is going in construction machinery, the joystick may need to be able to withstand dirt and outdoor elements, such as rain. If a joystick is going in a welding facility, the joystick may need to withstand heat. Always consider what elements your joystick will be subjected to and then find a joystick that is designed to withstand those elements. 

If the Parts Can Be Replaced

The last factor you want to consider when buying an industrial joystick is whether the parts within the joystick can be replaced if they stop working, or whether the entire joystick will need to replaced. Some joysticks can be taken apart and have their parts changed out as needed, whereas others cannot be taken apart. Typically, joysticks with replaceable parts have a longer lifespan, but they may also cost more. On the other hand, a joystick without replaceable parts may cost less, but if one part stops working, the entire joystick needs to be replaced.

An industrial joystick can help make increase the precision of the machine that is being operated. Selecting the right joystick is important. Always consider the sensitivity of the joystick, what elements the joystick is designed to withstand and whether certain parts of the joystick can be replaced, if needed, to help you select the one that best meets the needs of your business machinery and equipment. Contact a company, like ETI Systems, for more help.

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