How to Use KY-023 Dual Axis Joystick Module: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The KY-023 Dual Axis Joystick Module is an input device that translates the user's physical movement into electronic signals. It is commonly used in electronic projects for controlling motors, servos, and other devices, providing an intuitive interface for two-dimensional control. The joystick module includes two potentiometers for the X and Y axes, which output analog signals corresponding to the position of the stick.

• Robotics control interfaces
• Video game controllers
• Cursor movement on displays
• Remote control vehicles
• Educational projects and prototypes

• Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5V
• Output Signal: Analog (two axes)
• Built-in switch (activated by pressing down on the joystick)

1. Connect the +5V pin to the 5V output on your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO).
2. Connect the GND pin to a ground pin on your microcontroller.
3. Connect the VRx pin to an analog input pin on your microcontroller to read the X-axis position.
4. Connect the VRy pin to another analog input pin to read the Y-axis position.
5. Optionally, connect the SW pin to a digital input pin if you wish to use the built-in switch.

• Ensure that the power supply voltage does not exceed the module's maximum rating.
• Use pull-up resistors if necessary for the switch to ensure a stable digital input.
• Calibrate the joystick's center position in your software to account for any offset in the resting position of the potentiometers.

// KY-023 Dual Axis Joystick Module example for Arduino UNO

const int xAxisPin = A0; // Analog input pin for X-axis
const int yAxisPin = A1; // Analog input pin for Y-axis
const int buttonPin = 2; // Digital input pin for the button

void setup() {
  pinMode(buttonPin, INPUT_PULLUP); // Initialize button pin as input with pull-up
  Serial.begin(9600);               // Start serial communication at 9600 baud
}

void loop() {
  int xPosition = analogRead(xAxisPin); // Read the X-axis position
  int yPosition = analogRead(yAxisPin); // Read the Y-axis position
  int buttonState = digitalRead(buttonPin); // Read the button state

  // Print the X and Y positions and button state to the serial monitor
  Serial.print("X: ");
  Serial.print(xPosition);
  Serial.print(" | Y: ");
  Serial.print(yPosition);
  Serial.print(" | Button: ");
  Serial.println(buttonState);

  delay(100); // Delay for a short period to reduce serial output rate
}

• Inaccurate Readings: If the joystick is not returning accurate readings, ensure that it is properly calibrated in your software.
• Unstable or Noisy Signals: Adding a small capacitor across the power and ground near the joystick module can help filter noise.
• Button Not Responding: Check the connection and ensure that the button pin is configured with the correct pull-up or pull-down setting.

• Double-check all connections and ensure that they are secure.
• Verify that the power supply is within the specified range for the module.
• Use the analogReference() function in Arduino if you are using a reference voltage other than the default 5V.

Q: Can I use the KY-023 module with a 3.3V system? A: Yes, the module can operate at 3.3V, but the analog output range will be 0-3.3V instead of 0-5V.

Q: How can I increase the precision of the joystick readings? A: You can increase the precision by using the full range of the analog input and ensuring that the joystick is properly calibrated.

Q: Is it possible to use the joystick without the switch feature? A: Yes, the switch is optional. If you do not need the switch functionality, you can leave the SW pin disconnected.