Saitek X52

The Saitek X52 is an advanced HOTAS joystick. The X52 uses a single spring which allows users to switch axes without changing force needed to move the same distance.

The X52 also features an integrated mouse on the throttle, however it only functions when drivers and the SST software is installed.

The X52 Is a Joystick/Throttle combination from Saitek. Released in 2004, the X52 is one of Saitek's flagship products and features both a Joystick and a Throttle. The distinguishing feature of the X52 is the large backlit blue (or green, on an x52 pro) LCD display on the throttle, which displays the mode it is configured, the name of the button being depressed and a chronograph function. [ cite web | title = Saitek X52 Computer Joystick | publisher = Computer Joysticks | date = 2008-01-22 | url = http://computerjoysticks.blogspot.com/2008/01/saitek-x52-flight-usb-joystick.html | accessdate = 2008-02-28 ]

The stick/throttle combination are designed to function as a HOTAS system. This means that games can be played without the player ever taking their hands off the controls to use a keyboard or mouse. The joystick/throttle combination includes a number of controls, including trim wheels, a thumb operated slider, a mouse control and three eight-way hat switches, and a button under a flip-guard labeled "Safe". The stick includes built in yaw/rudder control also, which is able to be disabled in the case that the user has an alternate rudder control.

The stick uses only a single spring mounted vertically to keep it centered. This enables quick direction changes on the stick without "clicking" through the axes - a problem common to other sticks which normally feature two springs mounted horizontally.

References

[http://www.saitek.com/uk/prod/x52.htm Saitek.com]