WINAMP and Disco Lights
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Have you ever wanted to set up Disco Lights for your parties? DiscoLitez could be the answer ....
You need ... 1. WINAMP V2.0 http://www.winamp.com/ |
How it works.
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DiscoLitez is a Freeware "Visualization" Plugin for WINAMP. Unfortunately, it won't work with WINAMP V3.0 (yet). You need WINAMP V2.0 DiscoLitez extracts either Loudness, or Frequency information and converts output levels to 'pulses' on each of the eight output lines at the Printer Port. This means that lamps connected to each of the eight lines will pulse in time with the music. The software allows you to set each line individually. The Simplified Output Interface, or Simplified I/O Interface may be used to display patterns directly on the built-in LEDs.
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The Disco Board
The Disco Board connects to the Simplified Output, or I/O Interface and allows larger current devices like globes and (Low Voltage) spotlights to be used. The Disco Board is based on the MTP3055E TMOS device from Dick Smith. (Catalogue Number: Z2132 $1.99)
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MTP3055E is a
three-pin device that acts as a high-current switch.
A positive voltage between the Gate and Source switches a much larger current between the Source and Drain. The MTP3055E can deliver up to 12 amps at 60 volts. WARNING - This is a CMOS device. Normal anti-static handling precautions must be taken. |
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The MTP3055E is a very low-resistance switch. With 10 volts at the Gate, its resistance across the Drain/Source is in the order of 0.1 ohms. This means it generates very little heat. For small currents of only a few amps, no heat sink is required. For larger currents is would be wise to provide a heat sink.
This project is aiming at using standard 8 watt trailer lamps. It is not expected that a heat sink will be required.
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This board is NOT designed for use with 240 Volts. It is illegal and STUPID to play with 240 volts. |
The Power Supply
The power supply must be able to provide sufficient current to drive the lamps. As a guide, each 8 watt Trailer Lamp requires almost 3/4 of an amp. If you intend using all eight channels, you will need a power supply able to deliver 6 amps! The power supply must be DC and preferably, regulated. A heavy duty "Battery Charger" may be suitable.
Disco Board Single Channel Schematic
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Interface Schematic
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The diagram above represents the output stage of the Simplified and I/O Interfaces. It is provided here for reference only. For more detail see here.
NOTE: The ULN2803 inverts the logic state. A HIGH at the Printer Port produces a LOW at the corresponding output line of the Interface.
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Artwork
This represents a single-channel board. The PCB pattern below can be used to drive up to 8 lines. |
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| 8 -
Channel Disco Board
This board provides up to eight output lines. If you need less than five lines, cut the board in half, or only manufacture half of the board. |
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Component Overlay
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2-Line board based on the circuit
above.
 First Public Viewing |
 May 9th 2003 |
Parts List
| R1 | 10K ohm 1/4 watt |
| R2 | 560 ohm 1/4 watt |
| R3 | 560 ohm 1/4 watt |
| R4 | 100K ohm 1/4 watt |
| R5 | 100K ohm 1/4 watt |
| R6 | 10K ohm 1/4 watt |
| R7 | 100K ohm 1/4 watt |
| D1 | 3mm LED |
| Q1 | BC 557, or similar |
| Q2 | MTP3055E TMOS |
| Regulated 12 volt Power
Supply
NOTE: The power supply must be able to supply enough current to drive all the lamps. You will get erratic results if an inadequate power supply is used. |
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| 8 watt Trailer Lamp |
How it Works
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Sending one of the data lines at the Printer Port HIGH produces a LOW at the corresponding output Data Line of the Parallel Port Interface which in turn switches transistor Q1 on. When Q1 switches on, the indicator LED D1 turns on. R2 limits current through the LED. R1 limits current into the base of the transistor. The base of the transistor is prevented from 'floating' by resistors R5 and R6. These resistors provide the correct 'bias' for the transistor. When Q1 switches on, a positive voltage is applied to the gate of Q2, the TMOS, switching it on. This triggers the TMOS allowing a large current to flow between the Drain and Source and the lamp turns on. R4 holds the Gate of the TMOS LOW to prevent false triggering. R3 limits current into the Gate. R7 across the Drain/Source provides a degree of protection from static charge when the lamp is removed from the circuit. WARNING - The MTP3005E is a CMOS device. Normal anti-static handling precautions must be taken. As the input from the Interface rises and falls the lamp switches on and off (in time with the music). With thanks to Reg Ion for electronics advice. |
The History ...
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The Prototype ... April 19th 2003
