Where can I buy non-standard hardware buttons (controls) for a DIY device?

Question

Do it yourself

I make a specialized video camera (connected to a computer or tablet), which takes pictures of objects with different magnifications, puts the picture in the database, indicating the date / time, comments, and a number of other parameters. For use, for example, in the inventory or audit of technical systems, where several elements are photographed in a row in the same sequence to remove the state.

For example, when registering a car, take a picture of the engine number, body number, etc. in sequence.

Now I do it with a specially adapted webcam. But for photographing, you have to adjust the shooting parameters - lighting intensity, switching the camera operation mode (photo / video), shooting itself. To do this, you have to be distracted by the computer, press the buttons on it.

I can't find the controls - buttons, like on cameras, or a wheel, like on a mouse. To build them into the camera handle and manage all this stuff without touching the computer. Who knows where these can be found?

And then in the component stores - only tact buttons, even a wheel, like on cameras for switching shooting modes - I did not find it.
You need something similar so that you can build it into your device. Where can you buy these?

Answer 1

Do not take it for advertising (in my opinion, an expensive store, but it works and is available in many cities), www.chipdip.ru/lib/catalog/1255.aspx
Look, for example, at biscuit and slide switches.
Handles to them www.chipdip.ru/lib/catalog/1391.aspx
But, to be honest, it is very difficult to imagine your expectations, and it is not entirely clear from the message. For example, often nut switches are attached to the body with a nut, some kind of handle is attached to the axis with a screw, but this, of course, will look different than even on the simplest factory camera.
So sorry if I'm stating the obvious.

Answer 2

Look towards the SMS buttons. And you can also collect a small remote control that controls the parameters on your computer. The remote control is small and tightly attached to your camera handle.

Answer 3

As a rotary control, an encoder is suitable ( Chipidip catalog for an example ). They are quite compact, without monstrous nuts and handles, often with a built-in button (turn + click).

Answer 4

There are Tact buttons in the mice, you can separately buy multi-colored caps for them or cover them with a film. Look in the "Brown Bear", there is a good selection of controls. The rotary elements are called encoders.

Answer 5

In general, I will try. I'll probably take a wireless keypad from China as a controller . And I will collect buttons for it.
Thanks everyone for the replies!