Optical and Hall-Effect Encoders and Joysticks

Grayhill specializes in human interface optical encoders (with optional joysticks and pushbuttons) that provide excellent tactile feedback to the user. The greatest advantage of optical encoders is their non-contact switching technology, which results in an exceptionally high operational life.
 
Another great technology integrated into our encoder and joystick products is the Hall-effect technology. The Hall-effect sensor magnetically detects the position of another moving part such as the shaft in a joystick or encoder. This relational position can be outputted from the device in a variety of formats, including I2C, open collector, or push-pull output. Hall-effect technology has the advantage of working in low-voltage applications and often features a sleep mode to conserve power.