I am totally frustrated - BU0836X died

[jmig]

OK, I found the problem. My apologies to Leo Bodnar, if I offended his product. It turned out to be a shorted pot. Once that was fixed, the card started working again.

However, I still want a spare card...just in case.

[manhattan]

Leo has taken his site down and is for now on "vacation". No time line when and if he will be back.

Hi Bob.

As a user of BU0836X (Bodner), I am hoping that you can explain how the 'matrix' wiring system works? Normally, 32 switches would be wired one to each pin with the other switch contact grounded - 33 pins. How can so many switches be independently connected to so few connection pins? Any chance of a diagram? As a matter of interest, if Leo is difficult to contact, would it not be a bit risky to place orders and send money. Just a thought.
I have written to you because you are a seasoned forum member - hope you don't mind.

TONY
TWIN OTTER.

[Buddym]

To be honest, I am not sure how Leo accomplishes the matrix functionality in hist code. The typical scenario on the design side of things is to use a matrix for more inputs by using some pins as outputs and some as inputs and scan them in a matrix. For instance, we could take a 8-bit port on a AVR or PIC and use bits 0-3 as output columns and bits 4-7 as input rows. You connect a switch across each intersection between the 4 inputs and the 4 outputs for a total of 16 switches. The you can scan each input in sequence while strobing the outputs in sequence. The code is written so that when a switch is pressed, it knows which one by knowing which output was HIGH and which input it was detected on. This is very common in the microcontroller world and is an industry standard practice as well. I am not sure if this is how Leo does it or not, there are other methods like port-expander chips, etc.

I am currently building a few MJoy-16c boards for myself and some other simmers. The functionality is the same as the BU0836X, although my own BU0836X works extremely well I am seeking to get more inputs at a lower cost. I can tell you from a construction viewpoint that the
BU0836X does offer great value given that it has the quick-connect terminal strips and can also support rotary encoders. The terminal strips themselves are not cheap.

BuddyM
Tampa Fl USA
A320 Builder

[ian@737ng.co.uk]

hi guys..........
how does he do it? magic seriously, this has got to be the most cost effective way of getting your input's in. frankly speaking there is nothing to touch the BU cards out there for the money.
i swear by these boards (i actually have 6). never had a minutes trouble with any of them and the oldest standard card is 4 years old.
i have to admit that communication is not leo's strongpoint, but i know from contact with him that it's not that he doesn't want to communicate, he just doesn't have time.
sort of a 'victim of his own success' really.
great product at a great price, now where else do you get that in sim-building ?
long may the BU0836 family of cards be available
have a great day gentlemen.
regards from wales ... ian