View Full Version : Interfacing cards/boards for dummys
Infinity
07-03-2011, 06:49 PM
Ok. So I need rotary, toggles, pushbuttons, and sliders. I'm looking for a usb interface that I can connect the pots to, BUT I'm not big into wiring (simple soldering) or software applications (programming). I found this: http://desktopaviator2.tripod.com/Instructions/Model_2090/index.htm but the price ($52 usd) seems a little steep, although the simplicity may be worth it.
Just wondering what you guys use for your sims and if you can recommend something for a non technical guy like me. I'm not against taking apart a joystick, but I've heard that could possibly cause additional problems with the computer (bugs).
As far as how many, as long as I can wire one board, I can do more to cover all my interfaces.
AK Mongo
07-03-2011, 09:19 PM
How many you need depends on what you are building. Simplest solution I can think of is at http://www.leobodnar.com/products/BU0836X/
No soldering is required at the board side. You can solder or use connectors at the switch side. It handles rotaries, switches and pots...
The desktop aviator works just the same, but you need to solder wires to the little connectors that fit on the pins on the board.... Not Fun...Believe me...
Reid
Infinity
07-03-2011, 10:06 PM
I like it! Not a fan of the price though.
AK Mongo
07-04-2011, 12:12 AM
I agree, but you asked for easiest, not cheapest...
Also, be warned that it will take about 30 days to arrive from ordering. Leo gets them sent out fairly quickly, but they have to clear US customs.
Reid
ANDYSMITH
07-04-2011, 12:38 AM
Hi, Leo Bodnar cards are the best. get the fancy one that has spring loaded connectors and you need no soldering or programming skills. also supports rotary encoders. has 32 inputs and no drivers needed exept a utility to set what buttons are encoder inputs. about $40. worth every penny.
Google Leo Bodnar
Andy
Bernie
07-04-2011, 06:13 AM
Hi,
I have noticed they are temporarily ot of stock according to his site.
Kind Regards
Bernie.
Tom_G_2010
07-04-2011, 11:48 AM
I like it! Not a fan of the price though.
I'm someplace between frugal and outright cheap and after having hunted for a while you'll be hard pressed to do much better than the price Leo is asking. I was able to go a bit cheaper when I built my first rudder pedals by buying a cheap joystick and gutting it for the electronics. But, there's not support for that and I've decided that the additional cost of cards from Leo or Open Cockpits, or Phidgets is worth the money for the support, documentation, and software written for them.
Infinity
07-04-2011, 01:56 PM
I appreciate the feedback guys. Wasn't sure if there was something else out there that was easier and cheaper. Thanks all.
Sismo
07-04-2011, 02:25 PM
Just another option: Simcard Joystick from Sismo contains 32 inputs and 6 pots.
The card has been made to connect the inputs and axes to terminal blocks (recommended) or pines without welds. It's USB 2.0 and donīt need any driver.
http://www.sismo-soluciones.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&page=shop.browse&category_id=1&Itemid=69&lang=en