Joystick Module
A joystick module turns stick movement into two analog positions and usually adds a digital press switch under the stick.
Part images
What it is
A joystick module turns stick movement into two analog positions and usually adds a digital press switch under the stick.
How students use it
Students use it for menu navigation, tiny games, robot driving, cursor control, camera pan/tilt ideas, and analog-input practice.
Pins and power
Typical module pins are VCC, GND, X analog output, Y analog output, and a switch output. Verify labels on the actual board.
Use 3.3V for Pico ADC projects so the X and Y outputs stay inside the GPIO-safe range.
SunFounder explains the X and Y axes as two position measurements, with an additional digital input when the stick is pressed down.
Voltage and safety
Do not power the module from 5V when its analog outputs are connected directly to Pico ADC pins.
Do not force the stick beyond its travel. Power off before rewiring the module header.
Module internals
Main component: Two analog potentiometer axes plus a press-down switch.
X-axis potentiometer, Y-axis potentiometer, center-return stick mechanism, push switch, header pins, and small PCB.
Datasheet notes
The module is built around two potentiometers and a push switch. SunFounder does not list a manufacturer part number for the module.
Common libraries
Use machine.ADC for X/Y readings and machine.Pin for the press switch. Add a dead zone around center to avoid drift.
Common mistakes
Using 5V VCC with Pico ADC, mixing up X and Y pins, forgetting the switch needs a pull resistor, and expecting the center value to be exactly half every time.