Integrate keypads and gamepads into your next project

In Control

© Lead Image © Kirill Makarov, 123RF.com

© Lead Image © Kirill Makarov, 123RF.com

Article from Issue 207/2018
Author(s):

The Python evdev library offers a simple way to connect input devices, even if you don't know the key bindings.

Keypads and gamepads can be good solutions for projects that have requirements for simplicity, small form factor, or more rugged operation. Companies like Sony (PS2/PS3) and Logitech, and even makers of generic clones, offer a number of keypads and gamepads for USB wired or wireless products (Figure 1).

Although the Python Pygame library offers a generic keyboard and joystick interface, I found the python-evdev library to be a little simpler and more straightforward.

python-evdev

The python-evdev library [1] provides bindings to the generic input event interface in Linux. The evdev interface passes events generated in the kernel, typically located in /dev/input/.

[...]

Use Express-Checkout link below to read the full article (PDF).

Buy this article as PDF

Express-Checkout as PDF
Price $2.95
(incl. VAT)

Buy Linux Magazine

SINGLE ISSUES
 
SUBSCRIPTIONS
 
TABLET & SMARTPHONE APPS
Get it on Google Play

US / Canada

Get it on Google Play

UK / Australia

Related content

  • Simulated Pi Hardware

    Python and tk_tools let you create software versions of Raspberry Pi mini-displays, LED keypads, and NeoPixel hardware.

  • Gesture-Controlled Book

    Have you found yourself following instructions on a device for repairing equipment or been half-way through a recipe, up to your elbows in grime or ingredients, then needed to turn or scroll down a page? Wouldn't you rather your Raspberry Pi do the honors?

  • Snek

    Reuse your old Arduino hardware while learning Python.

  • Linux Pandora Box Goes into Mass Production

    Around $330 gets you a Linux-based Pandora handheld by shopping online, although the first buyers had to hurry.

  • Ask Klaus!
comments powered by Disqus
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters

Support Our Work

Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

Learn More

News