Overview

The LameStation provides two different types of controls: joystick and buttons.

Joystick

The LameStation incorporates an analog joystick that is configured to work like a D-pad, or directional pad, on a game controller. Instead of returning precise position values, it provides only directional values, making it much easier to use in an application.

To accomplish this, something called a window comparator circuit is used. By comparing the joystick voltages to reference voltages, clear on-off signals can be generated.

Buttons

The buttons used are a very common type of button called a momentary pushbutton. That means that they close a switch when pressed and open it again when released.

There is also a reset button, but this one works a little differently. Instead of being connected to a regular pin, it controls a signal that causes the whole system to reset, including the Propeller and LCD.

Schematic

Parts Needed

Sections