Friday, April 9, 2010

Electric wheelchair joysticks

Snazzy electric wheelchairs are controlled by joysticks which are usually installed on the armrest of the electric wheelchairs. Joysticks for electric wheelchairs is one of the most important component of the wheelchair as the users basically rely on this wheelchair part to move around.
Electric wheelchair joysticks are usually shorter than normal vehicle joystick. It is long enough for wheelchair users to control using their thumb and index finger.

Maintaining electric wheelchair joysticks
Electric wheelchair joystick is actually one of the most vulnerable components as it is the single interface with the users. Sometimes, it is subjected to aggressive usage and may reach the end of its lifespan earlier than expected. As the joystick is also sticking out from the armrests, there is the likelihood that it will be damaged by people sitting on it and breaking it.

Where to buy Electric wheelchair joysticks

Joysticks are usually vendor neutral and this spare part can be purchased easily on the market from any stairlift distributors. You can find out where to buy joysticks by looking at the stairlift distributor directory. Invacare, Pride, Jazzy, Permobil and Teftec joystick replacements can be found locally.

Replacing Joysticks for Electric wheelchairs

You do not need specialized skills to change joysticks for your wheelchairs. Anyone can replace wheelchair joysticks on your own. All you need is a screwdriver to remove the top of the armrest. The joystick is actually a modular component attached using a simple connector. The new joystick can easily be connected to the electric wheelchair. Users should take note to connect the joysticks properly and not reverse. After attaching the joysticks, users will need to calibrate the joystick movements so that it will suit the instructions given by the users. The calibration methods will be in the instruction manual that comes with the electric wheelchairs.