Abstract: A controller for a work implement, such as the arm of a backhoe, a feller buncher, an excavator or the like provides a number of advantages over previous controllers and control methods. The controller responds to an operator's inputs to a joystick control such that the work implement moves parallel to the direction in which the joystick is deflected at a speed which is proportional to the amount of deflection of the joystick. The controller used the joystick position to generate a path and attempts to cause the work implement to move along the path. The controller computes a maximum available speed in the direction of motion specified by the joystick and is self calibrated so that full deflection of the joystick selects the maximum available speed. The controller has a self calibration mode which compensates for variability in the motion produced by the various actuators in response to given control signals.