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PS4 Controller Integration

The PS4 controller provides intuitive wireless control of your UC2 microscope system, enabling hands-free operation of stages, focus, illumination, and scanning functions.

Overview​

Using Bluetooth connectivity, the PS4 controller connects to the ESP32-based UC2 board to provide comprehensive control over all microscope functions. This allows you to operate your microscope without touching it, reducing vibrations and improving imaging quality.

Controller Mapping​

Stage Movement​

  • Left Analog Stick (X-axis): X Stage Movement (left/right)
  • Left Analog Stick (Y-axis): Y Stage Movement (up/down)
  • Right Analog Stick (Y-axis): Z Stage Movement - Coarse focusing
  • D-Pad: Fine position adjustments in X and Y

Focus Control​

  • L2 Button: Coarse Z Stage Decrement (focus down)
  • R2 Button: Coarse Z Stage Increment (focus up)
  • R3 (Right Stick Click): Enter Fine Focus Adjustment Mode

Illumination Control​

  • L1 Button: Decrease LED/Laser Intensity
  • R1 Button: Increase LED/Laser Intensity
  • Circle Button: Toggle Illumination on/off
  • Triangle Button: Switch Fluorescent Channel

Scanning Functions​

  • X Button: Start/Stop Scan
  • Square Button: Save Current Position
  • L3 (Left Stick Click): Engage Auto-Scan Mode

System Functions​

  • Options Button: Open Settings Menu
  • Share Button: Log/Export Scan Data
  • PS Button: System Power Toggle
  • Touchpad Button: Reset Stage Position/Center

Setup Instructions​

Requirements​

  • PS4 DualShock Controller
  • UC2 ESP32 Standalone Board
  • Chrome browser for firmware flashing
  • UC2 firmware with PS4 controller support

Installation Steps​

  1. Flash Firmware: Use the UC2 webserial flashing tool at https://youseetoo.github.io/
  2. Pair Controller: Follow Bluetooth pairing instructions in the tutorial
  3. Test Functions: Verify all button mappings work correctly
  4. Calibrate Movement: Adjust motor speeds and step sizes as needed

Applications​

  • Vibration-free microscope operation
  • Hands-free focusing during live imaging
  • Quick adjustments during time-lapse experiments
  • Teaching demonstrations without touching equipment
  • Remote operation during sensitive experiments

Advantages​

  • Reduced Vibrations: No physical contact with microscope
  • Intuitive Control: Familiar gaming controller interface
  • Wireless Freedom: Operate from a comfortable distance
  • Multiple Functions: Access all features without menus
  • Fast Adjustments: Analog sticks for smooth, continuous movement

Perfect for anyone who wants intuitive, wireless control of their automated microscopy system!

For detailed setup instructions, see the PS4 Controller tutorial in this section.