Capturing input from a Joystick/Gamepad

Question

Hi there,

I'm a Java programmer starting a new project using C# to capture user input from a USB gamepad or joystick in order to control a camera (e.g. pan it, zoom in etc.) as part of a wider application. I've done no C# before, but I do have a solid understanding of programming in general and have done a reasonable amount of VBA in the past.

I'm trying to figure out where I should start. I get the impression from reading this forum that this is probably the right place for this question - apologies if I've got that wrong - and that what I need to use is XInput (which replaces DirectInput which is part of DirectX ??). Am I correct here?

Will the XInput API allow me to control any joystick or gamepad I plug into a USB port, or does the specifics of getting the input from it vary by model?

Any pointers to relevant websites would be welcome, as would any pointers about what joystick/gamepad to use. The MS Common Controller for XBox 360 and PC looks like a good starting point to me.

Thanks very much in advance,

Rob

Answer 1

The best place to start is to look at the DirectX DirectInput sample for C#.

You have to have the SDK installed anyway - so open the browser and look for the DirectInput samples.

The project is very simple to read and implement in C#.

Just curious - what kind of Joystick to you got?

Answer 2

Thanks, I'll check it out.

Do you mean that I need to have the DirectX SDK installed?

Don't have a joystick yet. My first job is to decide which one to buy.

Thanks,

Rob

Answer 3

If you're a beginner, XNA Game Studio Express is probably an excellent starting point.  Tons of built-in tutorials, plus lots of additoinal help at http://creators.xna.com.

 

Answer 4

About the Joystick - sincerely - If you have little cash - go with a high end one.

I know it sounds weird but in the long run it will save you money.

If you count the difference in fast food Value-Meals it ain't that bad.

If you get a Saitek X52 (ONLY !!! if you need two consoles) beware of a problem I discovered with the Mode button (posted in this forum).

To be able to read it you MUST keep the Joystick Properties window open at all times ( Control Panel - Game Controler).

Weird ... could not find explanation - is it a DirectX problem or an OS problem or a Saitek problem ...