Abstract: A fiber optic control device has a joy stick and fixed thereon a unique pivot ball to enable the stick to have a universal pivotal movement. The pivot ball has relatively large surface portions of poor light-reflecting properties, and other surface portions which have good light-reflecting properties. This assemblage is carried by a base structure which provides a socket for the pivot ball, and cooperable movement-limiting means are on the pivot ball and socket, that enable such universal pivotal movement of the joy stick and ball to be had while still preventing rotative movement of the stick and ball about the longitudinal axis thereof. A unique fiber-optic light transmission means including a source of light which is adapted to direct a light beam against portions of said ball surface is provided, such means providing output light signals which are a function of the virtual position of said ball as effected by movements of said joy stick.