connecting MP-functions with external knobs, etc. (1 Viewer)

slatibartfas

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April 13, 2009
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Hi,
i'm a fresh MP-newbie, so sorry if my request may annoy anyone of you. i searched a lot the forum but i havent found a answer to my question. so here it is:
is there any possibility to connect the internal software functions of MP to external knobs, potentiometers, jog dials etc.? i want to build a htpc into an old sony tape-deck. and because of being an oldschool guy i want to include the front knobs of the tape-deck case with the audio functions of the MP.
is this generally possible with MP? any ideas? is there mayby a tutorial?

thanks a lot for helpful advices


________________________________________
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etheesdad

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  • November 8, 2008
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    thats a cool idea. I guess the trick would be to physically attach the triggers (nobs, dials, etc) to a specified input device (switches that activate mouse, keyboard, joystick, input for example - whatever's physically going to work). If you can figure out how to do that, you're in business.

    Any input device can be remapped to keyboard using software, so this means any input device could be used. I guess the thorny problem would be how to wire it, and to have the nobs and switches on the tape deck activate the input device switches.

    Will be interested to see if anyone here knows how the electronics aspect might work. Its a very interesting project. If you get it up and running it would be great to see some photos!
     

    Deco

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    Hi Slatibartfas,

    I wonder if using a MAME (arcade emulator) type interface would work? I believe these just mirror keyboard inputs.

    Here's an example of one:
    I-Pac link

    Hope this helps; either way love to see your finished machine!

    Deco.
     

    dir

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    I've often wondered what people do with those htpc cases that have a big volume knob and sometimes a row or two of buttons. Apart from proprietary software that never gets used once a proper setup is configured, I've assumed that these knobs and dials end up unused (as does those mini-screens).

    Even if the volume knob could adjust volume, would it ever be used except extremely rarely, since the remote control is the primary interface?

    I'm curious as to what others do. I have to buy a new case soon and I always skip past the 90% of boxes out there that have buttons and knobs (and screens) on them, since the only two buttons I've ever used on mine are power and reset.
     

    etheesdad

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    Even if the volume knob could adjust volume, would it ever be used except extremely rarely, since the remote control is the primary interface?

    same thought occurred to me.

    (I am a dedicated couch potato, though :) )
     

    frenzy

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    It can be useful the day you run out of batteries and the shops are closed:p

    Now to answer the question of the OP, it would take knowledge of electronics, programming microcontrollers and enough skill to construct the actual circuits. A few years ago I tried to build a custom IR receiver for mythtv (when I was still using it), I had the schematics, I had the parts, I had the driver, constructed the circuit but it never worked. It was fun trying though and I learned a few things along the way. So even if it never works why not try and see?:)
     

    slatibartfas

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    ... I've assumed that these knobs and dials end up unused (as does those mini-screens).

    thats a true conclusion, indeed. but using a remote control and setting up a black htpc box with one "on/off" button isn't a challenge. the focus is just the fun doing and (if possible) realising it.

    well, thanks a lot guys. i've a lot to do ;)

    to all: if it works, i'm going to post the whole story with nice pics in here.
     

    Msmax

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    April 19, 2009
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    frenzy
    Would you mind sharing the info (that is, if you still have it available) for the Do-It-Your self custom IR receiver?
    I would like to try it. I am using a MCE remote now, but I would prefer to use any remote.

    slatibartfas
    Very good idea for a project!
    I immediately thought about a microprocessor which scans all buttons and sends the keydata via RS232, PS2 or USB to Mediaportal.
    MP will act just like keypresses on a keyboard. Please keep us posted about your progress, very interesting.

    Msmax
     

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