GuliKit Joystick for Steam Deck (Type A&B) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, calibration, and maintenance of your GuliKit Electromagnetic Joystick Modules for Steam Deck. These joysticks feature Hall Effect sensors designed to eliminate drift and enhance gaming precision.

Image 1.1: GuliKit Electromagnetic Joystick Modules.

2. Compatibility

The GuliKit Electromagnetic Joystick Modules are compatible with Steam Deck Type A and Type B models. These modules are not compatible with the Steam Deck OLED version.

To determine your Steam Deck's controller ID type (Type A or Type B), navigate to: Settings → System → Steam Deck Controller ID. Look for 'MEDA' (Type A) or 'MHDA' (Type B).

Image 2.1: Identifying Steam Deck Controller ID and selecting joystick type.

3. Key Features

• Hall Effect Sensors: Eliminates joystick drift, creeping, stuttering, blind spots, and dead zones.
• No Soldering Required: Designed for easy, hassle-free installation.
• Integrated Touch Function: Preserves the original touch functionality of your Steam Deck joysticks.
• Enhanced Durability: Offers a longer operational lifespan compared to traditional joysticks.
• Low Power Consumption: Approximately 50% less power usage than previous versions.

Image 3.1: Hall Effect Joysticks provide precise and drift-free control.

4. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps carefully to install your new GuliKit joysticks. It is recommended to watch the provided installation video for visual guidance.

4.1. Preparation

1. Ensure your Steam Deck is powered off and disconnected from any power sources.
2. Identify your Steam Deck's controller ID (Type A or Type B) as described in Section 2.
3. On each GuliKit joystick module, use tweezers or a small tool to switch the selector to the corresponding 'A' or 'B' mode.

Image 4.1: Selecting the correct joystick type (A or B) on the module.

4.2. Opening the Steam Deck

1. Unscrew the eight screws located on the back cover of your Steam Deck.
2. Carefully pry open the back panel using a plastic opening tool. Start from the grip side of the shoulder buttons and work your way around.

Image 4.2: Steps for opening the Steam Deck and preparing for joystick removal.

4.3. Removing Old Joysticks

1. Locate the ribbon cable connected to the joystick module. Lift up the small black tab on the connector to release the ribbon cable. Then, gently pull the blue tab to detach the cable.
2. Unscrew the three screws securing the joystick module to the Steam Deck.
3. Carefully remove the old joystick module.
4. Repeat the process for the other joystick.

4.4. Installing New GuliKit Joysticks

1. Place the new GuliKit joystick module into position.
2. Secure it with the three screws.
3. Gently re-insert the ribbon cable into its connector, ensuring it is fully seated. Push down the black tab to lock the cable in place.
4. Repeat for the second joystick.

Image 4.3: Installing the new GuliKit joystick modules.

4.5. Installation Video Guide

For a visual walkthrough of the installation process, please refer to the video below:

5. Operating and Calibration

After installing the new joysticks, calibration is essential for optimal performance.

5.1. Initial Calibration

1. With the back cover still off, turn on your Steam Deck.
2. On the board of each GuliKit joystick, locate and press the tiny calibration switch. Do not touch the joysticks during this process.
3. Once the Steam Deck boots, navigate to the joystick calibration interface: Settings → Controller → Calibration & Advanced Settings → Open.
4. Calibration is successful if the on-screen spot returns to the center position (0,0).

Image 5.1: Pressing the calibration switch on the joystick module.

5.2. Adjusting Off-Center Calibration

If the spot is off-center after initial calibration, follow these steps:

1. Observe the current off-center position of the spot on the calibration screen.
2. Move the joystick in the direction that is symmetrical to the current off-center point, towards the central point.
3. While holding the joystick in this position, press the tiny calibration switch on the board again.
4. Release the joystick. Calibration is successfully completed when the joystick returns to the center position (0,0).

Image 5.2: Correcting off-center joystick calibration.

After successful calibration, shut down your Steam Deck and reassemble the back cover.

6. Maintenance Tips

• Stick Cap Security: During transport or handling, the stick cap and joystick may sometimes become slightly loosened. Before installation, you may press the stick cap down firmly to ensure it is securely seated and to prevent it from floating against the case, which could cause sticking.
• Cleaning: Keep the joystick modules free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.

Image 6.1: Ensuring the stick cap is properly seated.

7. Troubleshooting

• Joystick Not Centering Perfectly (No Dead Zone Mode): Due to inherent differences in precision between the Steam Deck's original sticks and GuliKit sticks, the joystick may not return to the absolute center exactly each time when operating in a "no dead zone" mode. This is normal and will not affect your gaming experience. Adjusting dead zone settings in the Steam Deck's controller calibration menu can mitigate this if desired.
• Installation Issues: If you encounter difficulties during installation, double-check all ribbon cable connections and screw placements. Ensure the correct A/B mode is selected on the joystick module. Refer to the installation video (Video 4.1) for detailed visual steps.
• Calibration Failure: If calibration does not yield the desired result, ensure you are not touching the joysticks when pressing the calibration switch. Repeat the calibration steps carefully, including the off-center adjustment if necessary.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information is not provided in this manual. For warranty details, technical support, or further assistance, please contact GuliKit customer service directly or visit their official website.