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  1. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    Something like this.. http://www.ebay.com/itm/10-Pcs-10x-SPDT-1NO-Momentary-Hinge-Lever-Mini-Micro-Switches-AC-125V-1A-3-Pins-/251273347187
  2. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    They make microswitches as small as an 8pin dip (dual inline package) but if you insist on an opto solution so be it.
  3. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    I've been designing this with ambient light as the source but this isn't cast in stone. Since you're going to need a domino docking feature (as discussed previously) I see no reason that a microswitch shouldn't be considered in place of an opto solution. Cheers, Chris
  4. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    Alan, you didn't answer my question regarding the light source. Are you going to be using ambient light? Do you play indoors, outdoors? Chris
  5. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    Steve, thanks for that information. Bringing Vdd down to 3V should solve the LED (Vrev) issue. Does the 4017 have a reputation of working reliably there? On the other hand adding a Diode in series with the limiting resistor isn't a big deal. EDIT: Oops! After looking at my schematic I fully...
  6. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    I must be getting senile and I'm surprised that no one has brought it to my attention. I'm referring to my last schematic that indicates a 4017 directly driving LEDs. After consulting the CD4017 data sheet I see that I should be using discrete driver transistors or transistor array like the...
  7. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    High Alan, I thought you said there are 5 players. That's why I have 5 LEDs. Though that's easily changed. I have other issues here that I need to resolve. I realize now that I have the logic 180` out of phase. I'm going to rework this circuit and re-post a new one. I will probably eliminate the...
  8. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    OK, this circuit should fill your requirements. Back when Radio Shack actually stocked parts I would select certain components on the basis of what they commonly stocked. This was to make it easier for nubes and casual electronics builders to obtain parts. You can still check for RS availability...
  9. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    Hi Nala and sorry for the wait. Soon after my last post my wife and I were cycling to a dentist appointment when she was sideswiped by a hit and run driver. No broken bones were incurred but she did suffer some serious road rash. Actually, "road-rash" is an inadequate adjective for what she left...
  10. CDRIVE

    Help Getting Started with PIC Microcontrollers

    Thanks for the link. I'll check it out. Chris
  11. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    Will an included push button to manually step the count from 1 to 4 suffice? If LED-4 is lit and the push button is pressed again it will extinguish LED 4 and light LED-1. Keep in mind that the push button and the photo sensor will share control at all times. Whatever LED is lit will be...
  12. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    OK, I need some clarification. Are you saying that out of 4 players it may be any player 1 through 4 that starts the new game? Example: If player 3 starts the game LED 3 needs to be manually lit to initialize the count? Chris
  13. CDRIVE

    Help Getting Started with PIC Microcontrollers

    Gentlemen, I gotta say that this debate makes me want to slide back under my (exceedingly comfortable) Picaxe security blanket. :eek: Yes, I now realize their limitations compared to a blank PIC but the more I delve into ASM and C the more I appreciate what the folks at RevEd did and continue...
  14. CDRIVE

    Boost line voltage for LED Florescent bulbs

    Yes, you're correct. I am quite mistaken. I have no idea what I was thinking. Possibly a case of not thinking enough or thinking too much! :oops: There is still one statement (marked in bold) that gives me pause. Wiring like this provides a mechanical (secondary) connection to the hot side of...
  15. CDRIVE

    Boost line voltage for LED Florescent bulbs

    When wired in boost as you describe the secondary winding is in series with the primary winding. I.E. Primary and Secondary current are equal and in phase. Chris
  16. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    OK, Gryd3 answered your uC - RC questions, so if you can follow a schematic and solder I'm sure we can design the circuit for you. How many players does the design have to accommodate? I.E. how many LEDs? Chris
  17. CDRIVE

    Boost line voltage for LED Florescent bulbs

    Since step-down transformers typically provide higher current in the secondary winding than the primary, I would think that the primary winding is going to present a greater limitation to maximum output current than the secondary would. After all, a transformer wired this way is roughly...
  18. CDRIVE

    Help with light detection keyboard

    Oops, I forgot to add the initial air pressure at sea level. That would be 14.7PSI + 58PSI = 72.7PSI. Chris
  19. CDRIVE

    Simple Switch using Photo Diode

    There is a non uC solution for what you want to do. The 4017 is a counter chip that will lend itself well to your requirements. Remember when Steve posted the above quote? Well, as slow as LDR's are 30mS is fast in human terms. You're going to need some additional delay time or you're going to...
  20. CDRIVE

    Unknown Power Inlet

    Yup but pop rivets are easier because you don't need a center punch. ;) Chris
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