Precision at Your Fingertips: The Faber-Com Joystick Guide
In the demanding world of mobile hydraulics—from marine cranes to agricultural machinery—the joystick is the most critical link between the operator and the machine. Faber-Com has set the industrial standard by utilizing Hall Effect technology. Unlike traditional potentiometers that wear down, these joysticks use non-contact magnetic sensors to eliminate “stick drift” and ensure a lifespan of millions of cycles.
At Aus-Tec, we provide a range of Faber-Com solutions tailored to your specific control needs.
1. MAP vs. MAS: Choosing Your Output
The first step in selecting a Faber-Com joystick is deciding how it will communicate with your machine’s valves.
- MAP Series (PWM Control): These are “smart drivers” in your hand. They generate Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals to drive proportional solenoid valves directly, eliminating the need for external amplifier cards.
- Best For: Simple, robust systems where you want to minimize wiring.
- Customisation: Adjustable min/max current, PWM frequency (50–300 Hz), and ramp times up to 25 seconds.
- Featured Product: Faber-com PMAP PWM Joystick ($780.00).
- MAS Series (Danfoss / Voltage Control): These provide a traditional voltage signal (e.g., 0.5V to 4.5V) or ratiometric signals.
- Best For: Integration with PLCs or Danfoss proportional systems.
- Featured Product: Faber-com PMAPS Voltage (Danfoss) Joystick ($780.00).
2. Highlighting Finger Control Joysticks
For applications requiring extreme precision or space-saving designs, Finger Control (Fingertip) models like the
MAP2L and MAS2L are the go-to choices.
- Compact Ergonomics: Designed for mounting on armrests or small consoles, these allow operators to maintain high precision with minimal physical fatigue.
- Marine Options: The PMASL and PMAP3L variants offer stainless steel construction and IP67 protection for saltwater environments.
- Featured Products:
3. The PJM Series: JS, JC, and JP Multi-Axis Controls
When you need to control more than one movement (e.g., lift and tilt), the PJM Series provides 2- or 3-axis platforms.
- JP (Power Output): Features internal microprocessors to directly control up to 6 proportional solenoid valves via PWM.
- JS (Signal Output): Designed to send signals to an external logic unit (PLC) or PWM driver. Available in ratiometric versions for Danfoss systems.
- JC (CANbus Output): The most advanced series, which collects multiple control signals (digital/analog) and transmits them across a CANbus network, drastically reducing the amount of wiring required.
| Model | Primary Output | Best Application |
|---|---|---|
| JP | PWM (Direct) | Standalone crane or winch control |
| JS | Voltage/Signal | Complex PLC-integrated machinery |
| JC | CANbus | Modern automated networks |
Explore the full technical specifications on our Faber-com JP Industrial Joysticks page to find the perfect fit for your hydraulic system.
Do you need a replacement for a specific part number, or would you like a customized configuration with specific ramp times and current limits?
Comparison: Which One Do You Need?
| Feature | PWM (PMAP Series) | Danfoss/Voltage (PMAPS) |
|---|---|---|
| Output Type | Power (Amps) | Signal (Voltage) |
| Direct Valve Drive | Yes | No (Needs Controller/Driver) |
| Typical Wiring | Simple (Joystick to Valve) | Integrated (Joystick to PLC) |
| Best For | Standalone hydraulic winches/cranes | Complex automated machinery |
At Aus-Tec, we stock a range of Faber-Com industrial joysticks. Whether you are replacing a worn-out unit or building a custom control panel, our team can help you program the exact ramps and currents you need before we ship.
Are you looking to replace a specific part number, or do you need help choosing between single and multi-axis configurations?