Gamepad Support #

Breadpad offers comprehensive gamepad support, allowing you to design circuits, navigate the interface, and run simulations using popular game controllers. This feature is especially useful for users who prefer controller input or need alternative navigation methods.

Supported Controllers #

Breadpad works with any MFi (Made for iPhone/iPad) certified controller and most popular gaming controllers:

• PlayStation Controllers: DualSense (PS5), DualShock 4 (PS4)
• Xbox Controllers: Xbox Wireless Controller, Xbox Elite controllers
• Third-party MFi Controllers: SteelSeries, Backbone, Razer Kishi, and others
• Apple TV Remote: Basic navigation support

Getting Started #

1. Connect Your Controller

   • For Bluetooth controllers: Put your controller in pairing mode and connect via iOS/iPadOS Bluetooth settings
   • For wired controllers: Connect directly via USB-C or Lightning adapter
   • The gamepad indicator will appear in the top-right corner when connected

2. Navigate the Interface

   • Use the D-pad or left analog stick to move between UI elements
   • Press A (Xbox) or ✕ (PlayStation) to select items
   • Press B (Xbox) or ○ (PlayStation) to go back or cancel

3. Start Designing

   • Navigate to the breadboard and start placing components
   • The focused element will be highlighted with a blue border
   • Press the Menu button to run simulations

Basic Controls #

Navigation #

Breadboard Design #

Advanced Controls #

Component Editing #

When editing component properties (resistor values, capacitor values, etc.):

1. Navigate Properties: Use D-pad Up/Down to move between different properties
2. Adjust Values:
   • Use D-pad Left/Right for coarse adjustments
   • Use left analog stick for fine adjustments
   • Hold L1 + move analog stick for precision control
3. Quick Presets: Press Y/△ for common values (e.g., standard resistor values)
4. Manual Entry: Press A/✕ to manually type a value

Simulation Controls #

• Start/Stop Simulation: Press Menu/Options button
• Quick Access Menu: Hold Menu/Options for simulation options
• Oscilloscope Navigation: Use D-pad to select probe points
• Waveform Controls: Use analog sticks to pan and zoom charts

Visual Feedback #

Breadpad provides several visual cues for gamepad users:

• Focus Indicator: Blue border around the currently selected element
• Connection Status: Gamepad icon in top-right shows connection and battery level
• Button Hints: Context-sensitive hints appear at the bottom of the screen
• Scaling Effect: Focused elements slightly scale up for better visibility

Settings and Customization #

Access gamepad settings through Settings → Gamepad to customize:

Analog Stick Settings #

• Sensitivity: Adjust how responsive the analog sticks are (0.1 to 1.0)
• Dead Zone: Set the minimum movement required to register input (0% to 50%)
• Invert Y-Axis: Reverse vertical movement direction

Haptic Feedback #

• Enable Haptics: Turn controller vibration on/off
• Intensity: Adjust vibration strength (10% to 100%)

Button Layout #

• Swap A/B: Switch confirm/cancel button functions
• Custom Mapping: Assign different actions to any button

Visual Aids #

• Show Button Hints: Display context-sensitive control hints
• Focus Animation: Enable/disable focus scaling effects

Tips for Efficient Use #

Quick Workflow #

1. Use L1/R1 to quickly switch between Wire, Resistor, Capacitor tools
2. Hold L1 while adjusting values for fine control
3. Use Y/△ for quick resistor value presets (10Ω, 100Ω, 1kΩ, etc.)
4. Press Menu to instantly run simulations

Navigation Shortcuts #

• Right analog stick: Alternative navigation method
• Double-tap A/✕: Quick-place commonly used components
• Hold B/○: Quickly exit multiple nested menus

Accessibility Features #

• Large Focus Indicators: Easier to see selected elements
• Haptic Feedback: Feel button presses and navigation
• Audio Cues: VoiceOver compatibility for visually impaired users
• Customizable Controls: Remap buttons for motor accessibility needs

Troubleshooting #

Controller Not Connecting #

1. Ensure controller is in pairing mode
2. Check iOS/iPadOS Bluetooth settings
3. Try forgetting and re-pairing the controller
4. Restart Breadpad if the connection indicator doesn’t appear

Laggy or Unresponsive Controls #

1. Check controller battery level
2. Reduce analog stick sensitivity in settings
3. Increase dead zone if controller drifts
4. Ensure no other apps are using the controller

Missing Button Functions #

1. Verify controller is MFi certified
2. Check custom button mappings in settings
3. Reset to default settings if issues persist
4. Update Breadpad to the latest version

Platform Differences #

iOS/iPadOS #

• Full feature support with all controllers
• Haptic feedback available on supported controllers
• Picture-in-Picture simulation while using other apps

macOS #

• Native controller support via Game Controller framework
• Keyboard shortcuts work alongside gamepad controls
• Multi-monitor support with gamepad navigation

visionOS #

• Spatial navigation with hand tracking + gamepad
• 3D breadboard manipulation with analog sticks
• Eye tracking + gamepad combination controls

Supported Workflows #

The gamepad integration supports the complete Breadpad workflow:

✅ Circuit Design: Place and connect components
✅ Component Configuration: Edit properties and values
✅ Simulation: Run transient, AC, and DC analysis
✅ Oscilloscope: Probe signals and view waveforms
✅ File Management: Save, load, and export designs
✅ Settings: Configure app preferences
✅ Help: Access documentation and tutorials

Feedback and Support #

The gamepad feature is continuously improved based on user feedback. If you experience issues or have suggestions:

• Use the in-app feedback option (accessible via gamepad)
• Contact support with your controller model and iOS version
• Check for app updates that may include gamepad improvements

Enjoy designing circuits with the precision and comfort of your favorite game controller!