The Microsoft Sidewinder Precision Pro is a digital joystick released in 1999 as part of Microsoft's Sidewinder line. It connects via a standard 15-pin gameport and was aimed at flight-sim and first-person shooter fans who wanted more precision than analog sticks could offer. The joystick features ten buttons (five on the base, four on the yoke, plus a trigger), an 8-way hat switch, a horizontal rotary throttle on the base, and a twist handle for rudder or roll control. The yoke tension is provided by a large round spring that delivers even 365-degree pressure, and the unit is held together with multiple screws for solid construction. Inside, the circuit board covers nearly the entire base area, and an optical sensor linked to a movable armature translates yoke movement into digital signals. Microsoft included signatures of the design team molded into the plastic base plate. The software package (Sidewinder Game Controller Software) offers point-and-click profile creation and a library of pre-configured game profiles. The Precision Pro listed for $74.95 at launch and targeted Windows 95 PCs with at least a 486/66 MHz processor and 8 MB of RAM. While lighter than some alternatives, the stick prioritizes accuracy and straightforward installation over heavyweight build.