DC48 Controller (DMX - DC)

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David_AVD

David_AVD

Grandpa Elf
Community project designer
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This controller is now available. Further info to be found here



A while ago, Phil and I talked about the T48 and what improvements / changes he could implement in the new version. Since he is still MIA and people are wanting to get their hands on a T48, I thought I'd step in with my own.

After a bit of to and fro in ACL chat, I settled on:

  • Dual DC input (12V - 30V) (plug-in connector)
  • 2x 20A blade fuses (20A overall max per 24 channels)
  • 48 DC outputs (5A max per channel or 10A max per 3 channels)
  • Screw terminals arranged as V+, Ch, Ch, Ch (suits RGB)
  • True isolated DMX input (2x RJ45 sockets)
  • Remaining side will continue working if other side's fuse blows
  • PCB fits in a Jaycar ABS enclosure with 4x M3 machine screws
  • PCB size is 188mm x 122mm
  • Supplied fully built and tested
  • Upgradeable firmware (via ICSP header)
Price is looking to be approx $180 including GST, but I won't know for sure until I build one. Postage would be approx $15 to most of Oz, and the matching ABS case is about $25.

I have orders for a few so far, so let me know if you are interested.
 
The PCB design is fully done and I'll be putting in a prototype run next week. This means I should have a working unit in 2-3 weeks time.

pc705.png
 
Nice one David. Likely we will need some later in the year. Look great for running RGB strips and lights. ;)
 
Looking great David, thanks for the effort your putting into this

Just a suggestion, take or leave it

Would it be possible to increase the working range from 5vdc to 35vdc. The reason for this is due to RGB 3 channel strings are rated at 5vdc and some of the Kmart, Big W strings are rated up to 35vdc, by doing this you increase the range of lights the controller can work with

Only a suggestion :)
 
That's a good idea. The upper limit can be 36V with no real changes.

For 5V operation, I'd need to add a jumper. I've been hesitant to do this as powering the board from more than 5V with the jumper in the wrong position would be very bad. I could possibly add protection for this though.

If 5V operation is deemed truly useful, I will have a look. Comments from others please?
 
i know what you mean about jumpers. the dc-dc converter i use won't work at 5v to 5v. i wish it would. so the pixad8 has to have a jumper set to enable/disable the converter or disconnect entirely from the power bus (and then you have to add 5vdc to the m32mx and it will supply the power.

jumpers are good and bad. let the buyer beware imho. they have to be careful. just think if they attached 110vac or 240vac to one of the power inputs!!

-Ed
 
I have added jumpers to the board to allow for 12V-36V or 5V operation. :)

Using a power source higher than 5.5V when 5V mode is selected may result in board damage.
 
David_AVD said:
I have added jumpers to the board to allow for 12V-36V or 5V operation. :)

Using a power source higher than 5.5V when 5V mode is selected may result in board damage.
Click to expand...

Excellent addition David, Thanks
 
Just wondering if you've got 1 up, running and tested yet?
If these work nice I might have to get a few of these rather than some more LOR boards.
 
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