A-B Box Question

[jcwillow777]

I build another A-B Box, but I'm having a slight problem on this one. Everything works, except for the  fact that I get a dim light on one of the LEDs when using the other channel is on. When selecting the B Channel,the B LED is put the A LED is lit very dim. I've done 3 other boxes and I've never experienced this before. I am using the layout that I got from one of Brian Wampler's books. I'm not using a 9V batterry, I'm using a 9V plug and mono jack. Since I 'm not using a battery I didn't see the need for a stereo jack. I did the same with my other 3 boxes and had no problems.

I have checked my solder joints and I don't see any problems, or places that any of the wires are touching (solder joints). I'm using shrink wrap on the LEDs and where the positive leads connect together but I haven't shrinked it yet.

Is it possible to get a bad LED?

Thanks for any insight.

[oomnelson]

Hi, it sounds like you have a switch in bad conditions...
As far as I know, a bad led don´t emit light.

[jefe]

Maybe a bad 3PDT switch? Perhaps you applied a bit too much heat when soldering it?

Can you post a wiring diagram? Photos of your build?

[jcwillow777]

The more I think about it the more I agree with you guys. It think it is the switch. I just tried it out and when I switched from A to B there was a scratching sound as I started to depress the switch. So much so that I didn't switch it. A is the LED that is dimly lit. I didn't get that scratching sound when I switched from B to A. Here are some pics. Not sure if it's okay to put the diagram here since it's from Brian's book. If not, tell me and I will delete it.

I don't think I applied to much heat to the switch, but maybe I did. I have been soldering for quite a few years and I use flux when I solder so the solder flows better and faster. I have a couple of extra 3PTDs so I think I'll probably just change it. Thanks guys.

[jkokura]

Well, fortunately for you - You DON"T need a new switch I don't think. You can move the LED and ground connections to your middle pole that's not being used right now!

By the way, you're using a 3PDT switch where you could be using a DPDT switch. It's a little bit of overkill, and more expense than you need. Even at the cheapest rates of getting 3PDT switches, you can find DPDT X-Wing switches for cheaper.

Jacob

[jcwillow777]

THANK YOU!!! Jacob and everyone for your help. I just moved the stuff to the middle like you advised Jacob and it works perfect! I really never thought about the fact that I was only using 2 rows. If I make any more A-B boxes I'll go with a DPDT switch. This is the first switch I have used that was bad, and it was new. I just bought it for this project.

I haven't been here in quite a while and the last time I bought any 3PDT switches here Aron didn't sell ones that had been checked. I will definitely buy all of my switches here from now on.

Thanks again, big time!