This is a 16mm deluxe thumb joystick and is very similar to the 'analog' joysticks found inside PlayStation controllers.
Directional movements are provided simply by two potentiometers - one for each axis. These 10k potentiometers will read the position changes for the joystick's full range of physical motion. This joystick also has a select button that is actuated when the joystick is pressed down.
The mechanical parts found in this joystick are mostly metal and are considered far sturdier (rugged, if you will) than other, plastic joystick options.
Note: This thumb joystick does not include a top cap and it will need to be purchased separately. Additionally, the leads on the housing of this joystick are much thicker than the leads on the trimpots & push button components. When soldering to BOB-9110, we recommend using a pair of fine tip tweezers to guide each pin into the correct hole before pushing down.