Modify an Analog Joystick

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        How to Modify an Analog IBM Joystick For Use With the Amiga
  Jim Franck                                             MIJ67@Delphi.com
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[Please don't attempt to do this if you think you might blow yourself or
your computer up. -Jason]

Let's face it, finding an analog joystick for the AMIGA at your local
computer store is virtually impossible.  On the other hand, the hordes
of IBM clone users can take their pick from a dozen options at the
smallest of stores.  Being an avid fan of flight sims, I finally got so
sick of digital joysticks that it motivated me to sit down and figure
out how to wire up these nice IBM compatible joysticks for my AMIGA.
The following procedure describes the conversion process.

Disclaimer:  

     Although I have successfully converted at least a dozen
     joysticks for myself and friends, I can't guarantee that
     every analog joystick on the planet conforms to the same
     standards.  This document is for information only, and I will
     not be responsible for blown out joystick ports, damaged
     joysticks, or any other damage or expenses incurred because of
     an "unsuccessful" conversion attempt.  If you feel squeamish
     about attempting the following procedure, consult with someone
     who has knowledge of electronics and/or the AMIGA before
     attempting it.  To sum it up...if you don't feel comfortable
     doing the procedure, DON'T DO IT!.  Also, the application(s)
     you wish to use the analog stick with MUST SUPPORT AN ANALOG
     JOYSTICK!  Programs written to work only with digital joysticks
     will not work with an analog stick.

     * PLEASE READ EACH STEP COMPLETELY BEFORE EXECUTING THE STEP!

EQUIPMENT/MATERIALS REQUIRED:

     * Soldering Iron

     * Solder

     * Wire Stripper/Cutter

     * Ohm Meter (or other type of continuity tester)

     * 9 pin Female D-Sub Connector with Solder Terminals and Hood
       (even Radio Shack sell's em!)

STEP 1:

Be sure that the analog joystick you buy for conversion was originally
intended for use with IBM and compatible computers.  These joysticks come
with a 15 pin Male D-Sub connector.

Looking into the end of connector, it should look something like this:
                                                           
                         Pin 1         Pin 8               
                         |             |                   
                      +--|-------------|--+                
                      |.-|-------------|-.|                
                      |` o o o o o o o o '|                
                      | ` o o o o o o o ' |                
                      |  `|-----------|'  |                
                      +---|-----------|---+                
                          |           |                    
                          Pin 9       Pin 15               
                                                           

STEP 2:

Cut the 15 pin Male D-Sub connector off of the joysticks cable.  BE SURE TO
LEAVE AT LEAST 3 INCHES OF CABLE STICKING OUT OF THE CONNECTOR THAT YOU CUT
OFF, YOU WILL NEED TO PROBE THE ENDS OF THE WIRE LATER!  Strip the ends of
the wire on the joysticks cable, and strip the ends of the wire on the cut
off connector.

STEP 3:

Solder the 9 pin Female D-Sub connector to the joysticks cable according
to the following diagram.  Use an ohm meter on the 15 pin D-Sub (that was
cut off) to determine which color wire connected to each pin. 


                             AMIGA SIGNAL
    15 Pin Connector             NAME              9 Pin Connector
    ----------------         ------------          ---------------

    The wire that was                              Should be soldered
    connected to:                                  to:

         Pin 1...............< VCC +5V >...............Pin 7

         Pin 2...............<  RIGHT  >...............Pin 4

         Pin 3...............<  POT Y  >...............Pin 9

         Pin 4...............< GROUND  >...............Pin 8

         Pin 6...............<  POT X  >...............Pin 5

         Pin 7...............<  LEFT   >...............Pin 3

         Pin 5, 8-15 Not Used           Pin 1, 2, 6 Not Used

                                                Pin 1   Pin 5
                                                |       |   
                                             +--|-------|--+
                                             |.-|-------|-.|
                                Solder       |` o o o o o '|
                                 Side------> | ` o o o o ' |
                                             |  `|-----|'  |
                              9 Pin D-Sub    +---|-----|---+
                                                 |     |
                                                 Pin 6 Pin 9

When you have finished soldering all six wires, complete the job by 
assembling the 9 Pin D-Sub connectors hood.

STEP 4:

ENJOY THAT NEW JOYSTICK!

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