| Vancouver Off-Topic / Current Events The off-topic forum for Vancouver, funnies, non-auto centered discussions, WORK SAFE. While the rules are more relaxed here, there are still rules. Please refer to sticky thread in this forum. |
 | 
03-02-2011, 03:25 AM
|
#1 | | Banned (ABWS)?
Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Vancouver
Posts: 19,154
Thanked 3,985 Times in 1,690 Posts
| 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. 
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? 
I tried several configurations (just guessing here) but couldn't figure it out...
| 
|  | |
03-02-2011, 06:06 AM
|
#2 | | I bringith the lowerballerith
Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: vancouver
Posts: 1,149
Thanked 457 Times in 190 Posts
|
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)
| |
| | |
03-02-2011, 07:10 AM
|
#3 | | I STILL don't get it
Join Date: May 2010 Location: Port Moody, BC
Posts: 493
Thanked 133 Times in 64 Posts
|
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.
| |
| | |
03-02-2011, 07:53 AM
|
#4 | | Banned (ABWS)?
Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Vancouver
Posts: 19,154
Thanked 3,985 Times in 1,690 Posts
|
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)
| |
| | |
03-02-2011, 08:50 AM
|
#5 | | Willing to sell body for a few minutes on RS
Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Victoria
Posts: 10,436
Thanked 4,811 Times in 1,770 Posts
| Quote:
Originally Posted by AzNightmare  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.
__________________
1968 Mustang Coupe
2008.5 Mazdaspeed 3
1997 GMC Sonoma ZR2
2014 F150 5.0L XTR 4x4
A vehicle for all occasions
| 
| | |
03-02-2011, 09:29 AM
|
#6 | | I contribute to threads in the offtopic forum
Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: richmond
Posts: 2,837
Thanked 1,490 Times in 570 Posts
|
thats so nerdy/cool I'll help you with that if you wanna bring it by the shop after hours.
__________________
Rise Auto Salon
11938 95a Ave Delta
I can be reached VIA text @ 778-232-1465
Oil change special $70 5 liters synthetic oil including OEM filter Fender rolling from $45 per fender
Car Audio:
Focal, Morel, Genesis, Clarion, Scosche, Escort, Compustar, GReddy, Blitz, Tomei, Motul, Endless, Defi, Cusco, Nismo + More
We specialize in:
Custom Car Audio
Race/4x4 Fabrication
Forced Induction
Engine Swaps
General Maintenance | |
| | |
03-02-2011, 11:13 AM
|
#7 | | I STILL don't get it
Join Date: May 2010 Location: Port Moody, BC
Posts: 493
Thanked 133 Times in 64 Posts
|
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.
| |
| | |
03-02-2011, 11:13 AM
|
#8 | | Banned (ABWS)?
Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Vancouver
Posts: 19,154
Thanked 3,985 Times in 1,690 Posts
| Quote:
Originally Posted by Great68 That switch is much more than adequate for your laser pointer. | 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)
| |
| | |
03-02-2011, 11:16 AM
|
#9 | | Banned (ABWS)?
Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Vancouver
Posts: 19,154
Thanked 3,985 Times in 1,690 Posts
| Quote:
Originally Posted by LuHua 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. | 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
| |
| | |
03-02-2011, 11:17 AM
|
#10 | | I STILL don't get it
Join Date: May 2010 Location: Port Moody, BC
Posts: 493
Thanked 133 Times in 64 Posts
|
SPDT will work fine. You just leave one of the contacts disconnected.
| |
| | |
03-02-2011, 12:51 PM
|
#11 | | RS.net, helping ugly ppl have sex since 2001
Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Revscene
Posts: 9,298
Thanked 7,197 Times in 2,414 Posts
|
SPDT has 3 contacts. Connect the center one to the battery and the other one (any remaining contact, doesn't matter) to the laser.
__________________ Quote:
Originally Posted by skyxx Sonick is a genius. I won't go into detail what's so great about his post. But it's damn good! | 2010 Toyota Rav4 Limited V6 - Wifey's Daily Driver
2009 BMW 128i - Daily Driver
2007 Toyota Rav4 Sport V6 - Sold
1999 Mazda Miata - Sold
2003 Mazda Protege5 - Sold
1987 BMW 325is - Sold
1990 Mazda Miata - Sold 100% Buy and Sell Feedback | |
| | |
Posting Rules
| You may not post new threads You may not post replies You may not post attachments You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
| | |
All times are GMT -8. The time now is 07:24 AM.
|
You are currently viewing our boards as a guest which gives you limited access to view most discussions and access our other features. By joining our free community you will have access to post topics, communicate privately with other members (PM), respond to polls, upload content and access many other special features. Registration is fast, simple and absolutely free so please, join our community today!
The banners on the left side and below do not show for registered users!
