DIY simple footswitch?

notalent · #1 07-01-2008, 10:32 AM

I'm trying to make one of these:
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/produ...2&src=3SOSWXXA
It's a simple 3 button footswitch.

On the back of my SVT4 Pro there are two 1/4" inputs, one mono and one stereo. From what I've read this footswitch comes with two cables.

I'm making my own and I have two questions:
1) Instead of having 2 cables, can I just use a midi cable or Cat5 to run to the back of the amp then break it out into a mono and stereo?

2) I bought some vacuum stomp switches (SPST). Since this isn't really doing anything with timing do I need to worry about debouncing? I will need to buy some different switches
(DPST or DPDT depending on if I want to add LED's or anything)

It's pretty simple, am I overlooking anything?

JanusZarate · #2 07-01-2008, 10:44 AM

There's nothing inherent about the cable choice that would cause a problem (aside from durability). MIDI cables are frequently used with more complex footswitches to transfer data, but often they're used more like conventional cables simply because they offer more individually shielded wires to work with.

Same with CAT5 cables.

Just remember to cap any wire you don't use in the cable.

If you have the jacks to work with, why not?

EDIT: The only thing I'd be concerned about is whether you've labeled everything correctly. But you won't know for sure until it's tested.

OptimusPrime · #3 07-01-2008, 12:09 PM

Cool, I'm interested in this too. My new amp has a jack for a footswitch on the back. And I think making one would be cheaper than buying one.

notalent · #4 07-01-2008, 12:37 PM

MysticBoo--what do you think is wrong with the labels?

I'm not sure what to use for a box either, maybe just get one from Radioshack?

JanusZarate · #5 07-01-2008, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by notalent

MysticBoo--what do you think is wrong with the labels?

Nothing, really. But don't "finish" the box until you've tested it. For all you know, you might have some labels backwards. The only problem one I can forsee may be with the two switches running on the TRS line - you could have them backwards. But then again, they might be correct.

So... test first, and THEN label your switches.

Quote:

Originally Posted by notalent

I'm not sure what to use for a box either, maybe just get one from Radioshack?

You could order a Hammond enclosure (available in a variety of sizes) from numerous places online. Most of what I've seen at Radio Shack are made from ABS plastic... not the ideal choice for durability.

notalent · #6 07-01-2008, 01:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MysticBoo

Nothing, really. But don't "finish" the box until you've tested it. For all you know, you might have some labels backwards. The only problem one I can forsee may be with the two switches running on the TRS line - you could have them backwards. But then again, they might be correct.

So... test first, and THEN label your switches.

Ah, I agree 100% Thanks for the recommendation on the enclosure.

niftydog · #7 07-01-2008, 05:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by notalent

do I need to worry about debouncing?

no.