Controller Basics

In order to select the right controller you must know what you intend to use it for. You must also be able to understand some basic controller terminology. I have explained some terms below that you will encounter in your quest for the ultimate game controller.

For PlayStation information see the Articles page

2 Axis Controllers-

Most controllers have at least 2 axis's of control. Typically, forward/backward and left/right options are possible. Examples of 2 axis controllers include basic gamepads and basic joysticks.

3 Axis Controllers-

Same as above with the addition of another degree of freedom. Typically this additional control is in the form of a throttle to control forward/backward movement. The forward/backward movement becomes up/down (pitch) and left/right can be used to control yaw (rudder or strafe).

**Full Axis Controllers-

** Now things get complicated! Forward/back (throttle), up/down (pitch), left/right (strafe or rudder) and now views. Depending on the controller the views can be controlled by either-

Other method- Some revolutionary controllers such as the Spacetec IMC SpaceOrb-360, the Logitech Cyberman II, Mad Catz Panther XL do this by using unique setups.

The SpaceOrb-360 is a rubber ball that can be pushed/pulled/twisted in every direction AND combination of directions. This is my preferred frag tool.

The Cyberman II uses a floating puck that can be manipulated in the same way as the Orb.

The Panther XL is a hybrid joystick and trackball.

Some have a steep learning curve, especially if you have residual standard joystick habits, but will become deadly tools with practice.

**Display of SpaceOrb 360

full axis control.**

Click here to see example of[ **movement with 6 degrees of freedom (full axis control)

X, Y and Z axis**](/archive/full-freedom)

Throttle-

A device usually part of a joystick, but may be a separate unit that controls speed and/or forward/backward movement. It can be in the form of a small wheel or sliding switch on the base of the joystick. Some gamepads now have throttle controls.

**Hat Switch-

** A finger button that is not depressed but shifted in 4-8 directions. Most hat switches are placed for easy control by the thumb. Views and aiming are usually controlled with the hat switch.

Serial or COM Port-

A few controllers require hookup through the system COM or communications port. This is the connection you typically connect a mouse to. Before investing in a controller requiring a COM be sure it is properly setup and one is available.

Joystick or MIDI Port-

This is the typical means of connecting a game controller. It is a 15 pin connector and typically is found on the systems sound card. This connector can also be used for a MIDI (music) interface.

D-Pad-

The directional pad of a game pad. It is typically a round or cross shaped pad that controls directional movement. Some controllers allow this to be used as a hat switch.

Drift-

The controllers inability to remain properly calibrated. An example is when the stick is centered but slight movement occurs in one direction. It is similar to driving a car in need of a front-end-alignment.

Force-Feedback-

A controller that responds to what is happening. A stick jolts in the direction of a hit or a wheel develops resistance during a turn and jolts when crash occurs.

USB-

Universal Serial Bus, a method of connecting peripherals to the computer. Allows switching of components without rebooting the system. Found on Pentium II systems and most ATX motherboards.

Circle Strafing-

A useful "move". The art of maintaining the aim on your target while moving around it. When mastered this can become a very useful tool in confusing and defeating your opponent.

Pots-

Potimiters, the electronic component is a joystick that reads movements along an axis.

Circle Strafe

Pins of a standard Joystick/MIDI port

Joystick B ____ Joystick A / | / | / | / 1 | | O------- 5 Volt 5 Volt -------O | | 9 2 | | O------- Button Button -------O | | 10 3 | | O------- Resistor X-axis Resistor X-axis -------O | | 11 4 | | O------- Ground MIDI TXD -------O | | 12 5 | | O------- Ground Resistor Y-axis -------O | | 13 6 | | O------- Resistor Y-axis Button -------O | | 14 7 | | O------- Button MIDI TXD-------O | | 15 8 | | O------- 5 Volt \ | \ | \ | ___| _|

Death Blossom-

This move takes circle strafing into another dimension. In addition to moving around your target you add vertical movement into the equation.

Death Blossom

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