Newbie Help: (On) Off (On) Rocker on a 1590a Enclosure? (DIY FS3X controller)

[awc71]

Hello All,

I'm new here as well as a newbie to building stompboxes.  Rather than try to jump in with something too advanced, I've decided to try to build an FS3X type controller to use with a Jamman Solo.  The wiring seems simple and I thought this would be a good starter project.

I've read over a few wiring diagrams, and all seem refer to this http://www.diyguitarist.com/Schematics/FS3X-Wiring.pdf:    (author's post / pics here: http://www.diyguitarist.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=800 )

I've also read past discussions here:
http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?PHPSESSID=92755e555232750468972a841a482ee5&topic=45094.0

There are even a few in French  - which is too bad for me as I don't Parlez français.  

Here's the "catch."  I would like to build it in a 1590a enclosure.  (Need the space!)

Given the size of the 1590a, I don't think I should try to build mine with the recommended three momentary SPST switches; I don't think the usability will be "comfy" (e.g., little room between switches for your foot).

That being said, I'm toying with the idea of using a rocker switch, (on) off (on), to replace two of the SPST's.  That way I'd only have to worry about having to find room for a rocker and a SPST on top of the 1590a .  Functionally, I'd like to be able to use my toe to cycle up and down between the file banks on the Jamman (holding down for faster cycling) and use one SPST switch to record / stop / play.

My question(s) for all of you: Is this possible?  If so, what rocker switch should I search for?  

I've already seen MANY options on Mouser and am not sure which to go with.  I searched for "rocker (on) off (on)."  Is this the correct query?  I also tried "momentary rocker," but am not sure if that is the same or as exact as the first search.  Also for a rocker, does it need to be SPST?  Many are not.

Regarding style of rocker, I'm not sure - should I go with a button interface or a lever / pole?  For either, it would necessary for it to spring back to the off / center position.

Oh wise ones! Any advice / recommendations?   ;  I'd appreciate knowing if my scheme would work, what rocker should I buy, which is best to mount on a 1590a, etc.,.

Thanks!

[awc71]

Any ideas / thoughts?

[RandomGlitch]

My thoughts:

The switch that I think you want is a momentary DPDT center-off switch, you leave one halt of the switch unconnected.  Pressing down each way is electrically equivalent to having the 2 separate switches.

The only difference is you cannot to the equivalent of both switches at the same time.  It sounds as though that's not something you want anyway.

I don't know if such a switch exists.

Pressing a rocker switch with the foot requires a level of finesse that I don't possess, maybe you do, but you talk about "comfy" usability, so think you may be replacing one problem with another!

Rocker switches are made for finger, not foot operation.  Who knows how well the may stand up to your feet?

I'd try to overcome my space requirements make room for it somehow.

Hope this helps.

[awc71]

The switch that I think you want is a momentary DPDT center-off switch, you leave one halt of the switch unconnected.  Pressing down each way is electrically equivalent to having the 2 separate switches.

The only difference is you cannot to the equivalent of both switches at the same time.  It sounds as though that's not something you want anyway.

I don't know if such a switch exists.

Thanks for the thoughts!  Is this what you mean?  Would this spring back to center?

http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?partnumber=060-376

You're correct - as I read in the OEM manual, there should be no need for me to trigger both switches.

Pressing a rocker switch with the foot requires a level of finesse that I don't possess, maybe you do, but you talk about "comfy" usability, so think you may be replacing one problem with another!

Rocker switches are made for finger, not foot operation.  Who knows how well the may stand up to your feet?

Ha - well for now I have some balance and can at least lean if I need to.

For the switch you suggested that I may have found above, I was imagining just "swatting" it left / right as needed with the side of my shoe.

I went back and did another search on Mouser.  Would a switch like this "work?"

http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/NKK-Switches/G28KP-YA/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtNT9UGfLL4eAkSVkhzWvCuin2Xxv3u7%252bo%3d

Unlike the first switch, I imagine this would be more a "tap center then lean," rather than a "swat" with the toe.

Thanks again!

[RandomGlitch]

Obviously they'd both be fine electrically-speaking.  I think the second switch would be harder to hit accurately, but.. you need sideways force for the first... if the enclosure is fixed down then OK, but otherwise I don't think the 1590A would have enough weight on it's own.

[awc71]

Thanks - yeah it could be tricky if it wasn't heavily velcro'd down.  I could also attach a stick to my shoe 

Another guy tried this way:
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xbw5o9_pedale-fs-3x-pour-jamman-en-diy_music


What kind of button boxes are those?  I wonder if I could do that with a series of 3 1590 lb's ?