Console controllers are common among video game fans, also among users who play on PC. For some time now, a “new” type of control has been becoming popular that improves the old design. We talk about the console controls with Hall effectbut do you know what it is, its origin and how it works?
The Hall effect is a physical phenomenon discovered by Edgwin Herbert Hall. This physical phenomenon occurs when a conductor through which an electric current flows is in the presence of a magnetic field perpendicular to the direction of current flow.
Thanks to this phenomenon, a voltage appears transverse to the current flow that is called Hall voltage. This voltage is proportional to the intensity of the magnetic field and the current flowing through the conductor. Due to these characteristics, Hall effect sensors are widely used in the automotive industry, among others.
Using the Hall Effect on Console Controllers
All console controls apparently have the same elements, such as a direction pad, different buttons, joystick and triggers. These elements adapt to the design of each manufacturer, the functions they want to add and the special features.
Mostly and conventionally, joysticks are analog potentiometers and the rest are different types of mechanical switches. But, manufacturers are changing this, seeking to offer higher quality and precision solutions.
Precisely, in the triggers and joysticks, where precision is very important, analog potentiometers are being replaced by Hall effect sensors.
Using these new sensors in the joysticks allows us to improve the detection of the joystick’s position on the controls. When we move the joystick, a small magnet integrated into its mechanism moves. The Hall sensor, located near the magnet, has the ability to detect changes in the magnetic field. It then translates this information into electrical signals that are sent to the console or computer. This way the direction and magnitude of the movement can be determined with great precision.
Similar is the change in the triggers, which also modify their analog operation towards Hall sensors. This new mechanism allows for better typing precision. It even allows the trigger to have more than one action.
Hall effect sensors have greater durability than traditional potentiometers. This is because they do not have moving parts that wear out with use. Above all, this is important for gamers who make heavy use of joysticks.
Additionally, this type of sensors offers greater precision due to sensitivity to magnetic changes. This means that we have much smoother and more precise control.
Direct contact between moving parts and the sensor is eliminated. Since there is no contact, mechanical wear due to friction is substantially reduced. What this allows is that it has greater durability and, therefore, a longer useful life.
We can say, as a summary, that controls that use Hall effect sensors have greater precision, durability and reliability. Thanks to these factors, the user has a better gaming experience and will be able to use this component for much longer.
