Possible new switching unit

[admin]

A couple of years ago we produced a switching unit, the RCMUX16, which had similar functionality to the Model Control Devices (MCD) SWITCH 8/16 units. We had a lot of problems with the whole keypad concept. Either users could not wire them into their transmitter correctly, or setup the RCMUX16 correctly and we had several kepads fail in the field requiring replacements to be sent out (which we did very promptly, by the way). They were also a real pain to manufacture in the first place. Because of the manufacturing and customer support issues, we threw in the towel on keypad operated devices and stopped making them.

However, I now have an alternate product proposal to make. Our latest SFX6 sound system uses a switching method that does not rely on a keypad or any TX modifications.

It uses a single on/off TX channel (or you can still use a proportional stick channel if you want). It relies on toggling the TX switch N times to switch on output #N. Then to switch off output N you would do the same thing. Alternately, you can toggle the switch N-1 times and then switch it on, and hold it on, and the output would switch on for as long as the switch is in the ON position and then switch off when the switch is released. A spring loaded switch is ideal for this purpose.

This automatically gives you either a latched action (as in the first case) or a momentary action (as in the second case).

Although this toggling action is not as convenient as having a dedicated push-button for each switched output, it does have the immense benefit of not requiring a keypad at all, or any tranmitter modifications of any kind. It also does not require any calibration, nor any DIP switches to set latched or momentary action.

There is a practical limit to the number of outputs that can be supported in this way. I'd say 8 is the maximum as the operator has to remember the number of times they have toggled the switch, whilst also operating the model.

I am seeking feedback as to an 8 output switching unit based on this switching principle. If I get a good sense that there is sufficient demand for such a unit then we would be prepared to design and manufacture them.

Looking forward to your feedback - David.

[dougj]

Not being familiar with the RCMUX16 from what I understand this proposed unit is a standalone module (i.e. not just a f/w update to the SFX6) that has switching capability independent of any sounds...correct? If so then I assume it plugs into a single receiver channel which then switches up to 8 different devices. I personally would be interested as I could then rig up some lighting to my tank that I could remotely switch on and off but for my purposes would probably only need a single switched output.

I suppose the possibilities are endless as if for example you were to use it on the M16 Half Track then you could use this to activate the winch ot even the 2.2 scale truck crowd could do the same with their rigs. But I would think something like this would really be useful on more multifunctional models such as boats and planes rather than land based vehicles.

[admin]

Yes the switching unit would have 8 separate switched outputs and is a completely separate product from the sound modules. It would be a simpler product so would be offered at around CAD$150. And yes, most users of these units would be model boats which have lights, bow thrusters, gun turrets, cranes, etc. to switch on/off.

But on model tanks, instead of using up one whole additional channel for just one accessory, you could use that channel to switch 8 accesories. Our original RCMUX16 also came in one version that had a reversing output that could be used to turn gun turrents etc.

What I am seeking feedback on mostly is the mehod to select the switched outputs on/off. The original RCMUX unit came with a 16 button keypad which had to be wired into the Transmitter. As mentioned in my first post that gave us many headaches to manufacture and support. It was handy for the user in as much as there was one button for every switched output, but it did need calibrating to the radio.

My new proposal does away with the keypad altogether and uses the same switching method that the SFX6 sound module uses. This is a little awkward to use but has the huge benefit of not requiring any transmitter mods at all and requires no calibration.

[007Kiwi]

I like the reverse switching idea or functionality.

Anchor winch, gun turrets(with limiter setting, no 360' rotation), Helicopter rotors on rear deck etc etc

Regards