Rob_P

I use SCS on a laptop via a USB interface (normally an ESI Gigaport HD+) or more often via a USB link to my X32. The ESI only has unbalanced outputs but I can run it through a DI box if necessary. I tend to have a second laptop running a network synchronised hot backup into muted channels on the desk just in case of disaster. My show laptops don’t go online to reduce the risk of viruses or reboots. I update the AV via memory stick or a local offline network.

I use SCS on a laptop via a USB interface (normally an ESI Gigaport HD+) or more often via a USB link to my X32. The ESI only has unbalanced outputs but I can run it through a DI box if necessary. I tend to have a second laptop running a network synchronised hot backup into muted channels on the desk just in case of disaster. My show laptops don’t go online to reduce the risk of viruses or reboots. I update the AV via memory stick.

I have had a couple of instances (for a dual channel setup) of this circuit built into our SM desk for years now and they have worked really well. Even the most distracted SM seems to notice them. The other upgrade that I made was to convert all the belt packs to LED because I was forever changing lamps.

Sorry - I had someone who was keen on having the boards but I haven't heard back from him. I will double check how many I have left and let you know!

Well, having followed boatman's file renaming guidance, my order of boards turned up on Friday. I spent yesterday afternoon building the PSU and a pair of beltpacks, although I haven't actually tried them out properly yet. I can confirm that the boards look superb, and are ridiculous value for money, so order from iTead with confidence. Once again, thanks to Boatman and the team! Rob

On that note, I am expecting a batch of 10 PSU boards and 10 belt-pack boards to arrive. I only plan to use 1 PSU board and no more than 5 beltback boards, so I am happy to pass the spares on to other people (at cost + P&P) if anyone is interested!

Thanks Boatman. I have placed the order now, and am looking forward to starting the build!

I have a bit of time between shows and I have a big pile of components waiting to be built into a Bluecom set, so it is time to order some PCBs and then get on with it! I have a couple of questions about the ITEAD file renaming etc though if anyone can help! Their website specifies the following Gerber files needed for 2-layer PCB boards: Top layer: pcbname.GTLBottom layer: pcbname.GBLSolder Stop Mask top: pcbname.GTSSolder Stop Mask Bottom pcbname.GBSSilk Top: pcbname.GTOSilk Bottom pcbname.GBONC Drill: pcbname.TXTOutline layer: pcbname.GKOI have downloaded the BluecombeltpackV1_2.rar file and renamed the Silkscreen, Top and Bottom Copper and Mask files as they have suggested, but am not sure about the drill files. Which of the three drill files in the .rar file should be renamed to the TXT file, and what should I do with the others? Likewise, should there be a outline layer file so that the boards can be cut to size? Sorry for the silly questions - Last time I needed custom PCBs it involved messing about with Ferric Choride! Any help much appreciated!

I am very keen to build a set once the design is mature. Are there still plans to commission a batch of PCBs?

Great work guys. I am looking forward to making a set once the One item on the UK list that neither CPC nor Farnell stock is the XLR headset connector. UK stockists for this part seem fairly rare, but Canford do them. Part number is 40-454 @ £2.50 They also sell the Neutrik recommended mounting screws at £2.40 for a pack of 100 (part number 40-927) and spare belt clips for the Tecpro packs at £2.22 each (part number 27-091) Headset wise, it looks like the P14y Station 4 chat headsets use a 4 pole 3.5mm jack, which might overcome the twin 3.5mm jack problems. I am not a gamer though, and can't find any definitive details of pinouts since the gaming forums seem to be filled with rather confused people!

A quick one - I see that Farnell sell a ferrule kit for this case. It does look like it would tidy things up a lot. 2 questions therefore: 1) Has this kit and the belt back been designed with the ferrule kit in mind? 2) Does anyone know if the ferrule kit comes as a pair of parts or as individual bits? Basically, if I want to order a set of 6 cases do I need 6 or 12 ferrules? Thanks, Rob

Wouldn't life be simpler if CPC would cross-order stuff from Farnell though so this could all be a single order!

What a great project. Thanks for pulling it all together. I aim to build a small set to use on smaller gigs when I don't have access to venue comms. Is a part number for the case available?