Active Case Connector

Active Case Connector: Front view
Active Case Connector: Front view

When using different cases it is quite inconvenient to run lots off long patch cables between them. With this pair of modules you can reduce the amount of patch cables used between cases. This modules allows to use ribbon cables between cases. The connections are active buffered with OpAmps, so they are unidirectional. To connect cases in both directions (send and return) you need two pairs of this modules.

Specs and features

  • Eight active unidirectional connections
  • Runs on +/-12V and +/-15V
  • Power consumption below 20mA each rail

The documentation and the Gerber files for download can be found in my website.

Active Case Connector: Schematic send
Active Case Connector: Schematic send
Active Case Connector: Schematic receive
Active Case Connector: Schematic receive
Active Case Connector: Back view
Active Case Connector: Back view
Active Case Connector: Populated PCB
Active Case Connector: Populated PCB
Active Case Connector: Side view
Active Case Connector: Side view

Next Generation Formant Project: Housing and PSU

First step of the Next Generation Formant Project is the housing and the PSU. I want my Elektor Formant based clone to be portable. Therefore I ordered a custom made 19’’ flightcase, build to my specifications. The enclosure holds four rows of modules in Eurorack format. As PSU two of my basic PSU with LM350 are used.

The first picture shows the enclosure, the rails and the PSU used. The lid is not shown.

Next Generation Formant Housing

Next Generation Formant Housing

The first step was mounting the stand offs for the PSU and power distribution. The hole for the mains connecter and switch was cut out and the mains connector mounted.

Next Generation Formant Housing: Enclosure

Next Generation Formant Housing: Enclosure

Next was to install the power supply unit, the power distribution and the mains transformer. The wiring was done and tested.

Next Generation Formant Housing: PSU mounted

Next Generation Formant Housing: PSU mounted

The frame to hold the modules is build from 19’’ rails. The sides are plain aluminum stripes.

Next Generation Formant Housing: Frame

Next Generation Formant Housing: Frame

The frame is mounted in the enclosure, the first module attached. The enclosure is ready for more.

Next Generation Formant Housing: Ready for modules

Next Generation Formant Housing: Ready for modules