Spinner Controller

Overview

The spinner (also called a rotary controller or dial) was an arcade input device featuring a weighted knob that could spin freely in either direction. Unlike paddles that had limited rotation, spinners allowed continuous 360-degree rotation with momentum - the wheel kept spinning after you released it.

This physical property made spinners essential for games requiring precise, fast circular movement.

Fast Facts

• Type: Rotary optical encoder
• Movement: Continuous 360° rotation
• Key feature: Momentum (wheel keeps spinning)
• Peak era: 1980-1985
• Home versions: Rare (Atari Driving Controller similar)

How They Work

Spinners use optical encoding:

1. Slotted disc rotates with knob
2. Light passes through slots
3. Sensors detect light pulses
4. Direction and speed calculated
5. Weighted wheel maintains momentum

The free-spinning momentum was crucial - players could flick the knob and it kept rotating.

Essential Spinner Games

Game	Year	Why Spinner
Tempest	1981	Rotary movement around tube edge
Tron	1982	Tank turret rotation
Discs of Tron	1983	Aiming in 3D space
Arkanoid	1986	Precise paddle control
Major Havoc	1983	Rapid aiming

Spinner vs Paddle

Key differences:

Aspect	Spinner	Paddle
Rotation	Continuous 360°	Limited arc (~270°)
Position	Relative	Absolute
Momentum	Yes (weighted)	No
Technology	Optical encoder	Potentiometer

Spinners were relative position (movement), paddles were absolute position (setting).

Home Conversions

Home spinners were rare:

• Atari Driving Controller - Similar feel, limited games
• Arcade stick mods - Enthusiast conversions
• Modern reproduction - Ultimarc SpinTrak

Most home versions of spinner games used paddles or joysticks instead, losing the feel.

Legacy

The spinner became iconic for:

• Tempest’s vector tubes
• Tron’s disc battles
• The arcade feel impossible to replicate at home

Modern arcade revivals often include authentic spinners.

See Also

• Tempest
• Paddle Controller
• Trackball