XAC Zik-Zak Joysticks

Photograph of XAC Zik-Zak Mini with MERU Cowbar top.
XAC Zik-Zak Mini with MERU Cowbar top

XAC Zik-Zak joysticks, made by OneSwitch, are compatible with the Xbox Adaptive Controller (XAC). The XAC is a controller interface which allows you to create customised controller layout by connecting suitable compatible joysticks and buttons (find out more here).

photograph of Xbox Adaptive Controller.
The Xbox Adaptive Controller.

This article covers the XAC version of these joysticks, which are also available for use with the GCM 100 with a different connection (see GCM100 Joysticks – OneSwitch.org.uk ).

There are three different types of Zik-Zak joystick, all of which plug into the left or right USB on the XAC.

Photograph of Left USB port on XAC.
Photograph of right USB port on XAC.
Left and right USB port on the XAC.

All three joysticks come with three different joystick tops:

Photograph of he 3 joystick tops that come with all of the Zik - Zak joysticks.
The three joystick tops that come with all of the Zik-Zak joysticks.

There is also the option to purchase a MERU Cowbar top. Again, this will fit all three joysticks:

photograph of MERU corbar joystick top.
MERU Cowbar joystick top.

All the versions of the joystick require good gross hand or arm movement to use them. The force required to operate them is similar to a standard strength wheelchair joystick, so they may potentially not be suitable for individuals with limited strength.

XAC Zik-Zak Metal

Photograph of XAC Zik-Zak Metal with acorn top.
XAC Zik-Zak Metal with Acorn top.

The XAC Zik-Zak Metal is a heavy duty, fully analogue joystick for the XAC. It is housed in an aluminium case and is good for individuals with strong movements who need a strong, sturdy joystick.

The joystick is 9cm high from its base to where the hand rests on the joystick top.

The joystick comes with three different toppers. As previously mentioned, there is also the option to use a MERU Cowbar topper with this joystick.

XAC Zik-Zak Mini

Photograph of XAC Zik - Zak Mini with ball top.
XAC Zik-Zak Mini with Ball top.

The Zik-Zak Mini is a fully analogue joystick for the XAC. The Mini has a plastic housing with a small, square base and is suitable for people with good gross movement who want a joystick with a smaller base for their set-up.

The Mini is 10cm high from its base to where the hand rests on the joystick top.

The joystick comes with three different toppers. As previously mentioned, there is also the option to use a MERU Cowbar topper with this joystick.

Photograph of XAC Zik-Zak Mini with MERU Cowbar top.
XAC Zik-Zak Mini with MERU Cowbar top.

XAC Zik-Zak Plastic (special order only)

photograph of XAC Zik-Zak Plastic with all available tops.
XAC Zik-Zak Plastic with Ball top attached. The other 2 tops available are also in the picture.

The XAC Zik-Zak Plastic is a special-order version of the Zik-Zak joystick. It uses the same joystick as the Zik-Zak Metal and Zik-Zak Mini, but is housed in a larger plastic box which is a similar size to that of the Zik-Zak Metal.

This joystick is a good option for individuals who need a larger joystick base for stability but do not need the durability of the metal version.

This joystick can also be fitted with the MERU Cowbar top, for an additional cost.


Links (unaffiliated):

XAC Zik-Zak Metal: https://www.oneswitch.org.uk/art.php?id=279

XAC Zik-Zak Mini: https://www.oneswitch.org.uk/art.php?id=320

XAC Zik-Zak Plastic: This is a special-order item, please contact: info@oneswitch.org.uk