Need Help with electronics (wiring up laser pointer with pressure on/off switch)
 

I'm working on a project where I'm trying to "build" my laser pointer inside my Nerf Gun. :fullofwin:

I have one of those tactical laser pointers that come with a pressure on/off switch.
I wanted the laser pointer to be integrated inside the gun rather than just an attachment,
so I took out the bulb, batteries, and the pressure switch, and intended on
setting up the components inside the gun instead.

I don't know much about electronics, so can anyone give me a hand?

This is what I've done so far. Which enables the laser pointer to work.
But I can't figure out where does the pressure switch go.
How would I wire this up so I can trigger it on/off with the pressure switch?

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/6...serpointer.jpg

I tried several configurations (just guessing here) but couldn't figure it out...

with that configuration, ur lightbulb is on 24/7 isnt it? lol
i think u just need to make that metal end of the pressure switch touch the batteries. and get rid of the wire (at this point if it doesnt turn on make that wire touch the metal part of pressure switch and not batteries)

There should be 2 metal contacts on the pressure switch. If there's a large metal surface like that thing in your drawing, have that attach to the free end of the batteries instead of the blue wire, and attach the blue wire so it connects the laser diode with the other contact of the switch. The batteries and the blue wire should be separated by the switch. If you're still having trouble, post a pic of the parts and I'll try to help.

Oh, and btw. It might work out better if you replace the "pressure" switch you have now with a sliding switch. You should be able to find them at some home hardware stores, or Main Electronics. The wiring'd be something like this: bulb->batteries->switch->bulb. And hope you still have the lens on your laser, they need to be there to focus the light.

Thanks, I'll give these suggestions a try when I get home.

I like the sliding switch idea...

Would I need something like this?
http://www.thesource.ca/estore/produ...roduct=2750403

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/produ...roduct=2750409

I don't really get how I would wire these... are they just one piece of metal in the back? (do I just have to make the battery/wire touch it)?
And would I need to worry about voltage compatibility with my batteries or anything like that?

These switches are rated "3A at 125VAC"
My laser pointer uses 3x "AG13 Button Cell" (that's just what it says on the battery, don't know what it actually means)

That switch is much more than adequate for your laser pointer.

thats so nerdy/cool I'll help you with that if you wanna bring it by the shop after hours.

Switches have 2 metal contacts, minimum. If there's 2, connect the wires to separate contacts on the switch. If there's 3, then connect one wire to the center, and the other to either side. Why don't you see if someone could make a metal mount for you? It shouldn't be too hard to fold a small piece of metal and screw it onto the nerf gun.

So does that means it will work?



After some research, it seems I need a SPST switch to make a basic on/off connection.

At the Source, seems like only the DPDT or SPDT sliding switches are available.
Is it possible to use a DPDT or SPDT as a SPST?? (my mind is a bit blown right now)

okay.. I think the SPDT has 3 contacts?

The DPDT seemed really confusing. I think I'll buy the SPDT then...

I got the mounting stuff all figured out. Just didn't know anything about
dealing with the electronics to get the laser working. :P

SPDT will work fine. You just leave one of the contacts disconnected.

SPDT has 3 contacts. Connect the center one to the battery and the other one (any remaining contact, doesn't matter) to the laser.