A little help on matrix implementation

[SageOT]

http://forums.eagle.ru/showthread.php?t=117011

 

All right folks... So I got everything working from the above thread (which is awesome). However, I fully admit I'm in over my head. I completely understand how the matrix works, I've seen the diagrams and they make sense. As a non-electronics guy, what I'm having trouble figuring out is how to practically wire a matrix this large and keep track of everything...

 

Do I use protoboard and solder the matrix onto it and leave places to plug buttons/switchs in later... Is there something out there already pre-made for this...? I could really use pictures, or a link to a good "how to actually wire this thing" tutorial. Everywhere I search, Google and on here is more about the theory, which I get.

 

Thanks in advance,

 

Sage

[bnepethomas]

I'm using a combination, a little PCB from the Arduino to a Veroboard distribution board, and then a small proto board at the back of each panel (which has the diodes on it).

 

I've just ordered another set of PCBs for the next project, if there is nothing stupidly wrong with the gerber and drill files I'll gladly give them to whoever would like them. Basically you can get 10 of them made for $35.

 

Cheers

 

Peter

[SageOT]

Thanks Peter. I am on the edge of grasping what you ate saying, but not quite there... :) could i bother you to post a pic of that setup?

[SageOT]

I just reread the post. Awesome. I would love the files when you figure it out. Thanks.

[Rangi]

I would love a photo of one too, I'm about to do a bodnar button box which needs a similar matrix.

Edited May 20, 2015 by Rangi
auto fn correct

[bnepethomas]

Here you go guys:

First the Arduino adapter I've got two in the A10, one for the port side, the pull-up resistors are needed when the cables start getting a little long:

 

 

and one for the CDU

 

 

For the port side this goes to a distribution card

 

That then goes to individual modules, which can get a little busy, I've put a connector on every switch, just makes troubleshooting a whole lot easier than soldered connections:

The radios are very busy:

 

 

and the Environmental Panel, which is also a little busy:

 

[SageOT]

Thanks much! That really helped. What's your guesstimate for how long the wires got until you noticed you needed the pull ups?

[bnepethomas]

Thanks much! That really helped. What's your guesstimate for how long the wires got until you noticed you needed the pull ups?

I'm guessing it was around 4 feet, didn't really notice it until everything was cabled up, been rock solid since adding them

 

cheers

 

Peter