Source for a 0-10VDC output joystick suitable for Class 1 Group D Div 1?

Eh? [Alarm bells ringing - something ain't right here....]

The intrinsic safety concept is about circuit design, and correctly limiting the energy and power available in the hazardous area part of the circuit below that needed to make a source of ignition with either one or two faults applied, depending on the level of protection needed for the zone. So if 'our' joy-stick is made simply with two variable resistors for example (by definition, 'simple apparatus' under the European Standard), its connection to the safe area equipment via a pair of barriers using a cable with the correct L/C characteristics is all that is needed.

So what is all the fuss about?

<should be intrinsically safe> Are 'we' prepared to make that assumption, or would 'we' prefer someone else to test it and certify it with a proper document?

If the panel is in a hazardous area, what about the poor operative? In the UK, the HSE will prosecute if 'we' place an operator in a zone 1 hazardous area, 'cos it ain't healthy for the operator to be there!

If 'our' hazardous areas are large, 'we' have a serious containment problem, and an explosion is not far away, quite apart from the damage to 'our' economics of operation from not containing 'our' flammables.

Dum de dum de doooo. 50p for a cuppa, gov?

Contact IKEY @ www.ikey.com. They have non-incendive keyboards and pointing devices available. FM approved for CLI, Div I, groups A, B, C, D, F & G. If they can't provide the joystick you're looking for, they should be able to point you in the direction of someone who does, if it's available.

Provided that the difference between 'non-incendive' and 'intrinsically safe' as methods of circuit protection is correctly used by the original poster, then this solution would be acceptable.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrical_Equipment_in_Hazardous_Areas

Wikipedia - replacement for all the experience of all the engineers in the world. Makes me feel better!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bokam Engineering Inc specializes in mine safety and oil patch rated joystick and input devices.

Get in touch with us and we will get you set up 714-513-2200