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Author Topic: Pot-based steering controller  (Read 1174 times)

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StLouisRod

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Pot-based steering controller
« on: April 17, 2004, 12:26:48 pm »
Ok, I've used a 360 degree spinner from Oscar controls to play Pole Position and Arkanoid-type games very well for a long time now, but I'm wondering if there exists the same small spinner control that's pot-based instead, so I can play all the 270 degree pot-based driving games like Outrun with it.  

I guess it would resemble an old Atari 2600 paddle controller, that would plug into the game port (or USB) of a PC.

Has anyone seen such a device for sale anywhere?  If not, maybe I'll start manufacturing them myself and make a bundle  ;D.


paigeoliver

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Re:Pot-based steering controller
« Reply #1 on: April 17, 2004, 12:35:09 pm »
Rod, these were VERY common in the mid 70s.

Basically every arcade Pong clone and variation on the face of the earth used a metal spinner that turned a POT.

I used to own one of them, you could put a PC gamepad POT in there with no issues.

Now, the pne MAGIC thing about these (if you decide to go making them) is this.

The spinner turns a spring loaded plastic disc (think the rough side of velcro), the spring is pressing that disc against another identical disc that is actually turning the pot.

Why it it done that was is so that the player can't destroy the pot by simply turning too hard or too far.
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hulkster

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Re:Pot-based steering controller
« Reply #2 on: April 17, 2004, 05:11:38 pm »
Rod, these were VERY common in the mid 70s.


dude, POT has always been common, not just in the 70's ;D

Minwah

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Re:Pot-based steering controller
« Reply #3 on: April 18, 2004, 09:39:01 am »
You could just wire up a pot to the gameport.  I think for home use you wouldn't have to worry about breaking the pot.