New project - MSFS C++ USB interface

[Ioannis]

My first idea was to use momentary switches, and have an LED indicate ON or OFF. But I'd really like to override the switches physically from software.

This is great but why cannot you do it? I think it is cheaper, no mechanics (that can fail), easier to build and only you have to disable it by software. Even if user pushes the button, nothing will happen.

Ioannis

[Demon]

One thing that stopped me from having a metal enclosure was making clean cuts.

But now, we have affordable plasma cutting machines.

https://a.co/d/61WYUUd


I'd still need a 3-axis CNC base to get repeatable cuts.

I could get all the faceplate holes, as well as all the cuts to fold a sheet of metal.

I'd also need a folding tool, but that would be nothing at that point.

[Demon]

The ArcCaptain plasma cutter above requires contact between the tip and the metal, this is not convenient. That unit also has 11% unfavorable reviews.

There are alternatives that are rated as non-contact for similar price. This would be much better for a DIY cutting machine.

https://www.vevor.ca/plasma-cutter-c...p_010296608286

The Vevor unit only has 4 and 5 star reviews.


EDIT: Sometimes it's not worth going on AliExpress. The Vevor Cut50 is $80 more:

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005007124762190.html

[Ioannis]

Well, in theory you can built a CNC machine to use the plasma cutter. But the thick cable and the heavy head, I bet are difficult to manage. You need very strong steppers and a solid frame to minimize any glitches.

Ioannis

[Demon]

Moved voltage regulator posts to a separate thread.

https://www.picbasic.co.uk/forum/sho...5V-in-5A-range

[Demon]

One of the challenges I had given myself was to simulate an electric breaker in MSFS, just like the ones in a Cessna 152.




So far, the least expensive and "good enough" technique was using a tiny solenoid and limit switch.

I use an IRF730A TO220 mosfet for testing, but will switch to an AO3400A SMD mosfet later. Also, a 1N4001 as flyback diode. The 1000uF capacitor is not final, I still have to calculate that properly.



I have a slight drop in voltage; don't know yet if I can do anything about that.


Added benefit, "some" communication buttons can move to OFF under special circumstances. These electric switches can also be used for that purpose. They won't have the same feel and force as the other comm buttons, but at least i can print my own yellow caps and they'll behave exactly like in the game.

[mark_s]

Sometimes it is cheaper in small quantities to have someone make your parts vs building your machines to do the job. Plasma cutters do not make clean enough cuts as needed for control panels. Anyway you might consider using a proto service. This is an example, but I am sure there are others. They work like JLPCB

https://www.frontpanelexpress.com/pr...Lw_wcB#product