Progress on ASM-1

[Bob Zimmer]

This is some possible suggestions for those of you that are building ASM-1's!

What I've found is that it is very possible to build this board section by
section.  If you are not experienced at building or at all unsure of your
soldering ability, it can be done and works!

I started with the LFO, then moved onto the Noise Source, then onto the
first VCA (nearest the large power capacitors) then onto the last VCA and
Glide Processor.

In doing this, it allows you the chance of getting the board working section
by section, and creating your signal options as you go.  For example:

Warning:  In several places I suggest using headphones for testing.  Please
realize that the ASM-1 puts out a significant signal which will blast your
ears! 
If at all possible, use phones with a volumne control or run the output thru
a pot.  Before turning on the ASM-1, please make sure the volume control is
turned all the way down!!!

1. Build and test the LFO.  If you install the LED, or a bi-color
(red/green) as I did, you can easily test it if you do not have a scope.  Of
course if you have one or can borrow one do so as it will make everything
from here forward much easier.

2. Build and test the Noise Source.  This can be tested by connecting a jack
and headphones (or scope!).  Note that the signal does not look like more
than just a wide pulse on the scope.  It would probably look like more on a
spectrum analyzer (comments anyone?), but might be best tested with headphones?

3. Build the first VCA.  This can be tested by using White or Pink noise as
an audio source, and the LFO (set to a very low frequence) as a CV Source.
Again, if you don't have a scope, try headphones on the output!

4. Build the second VCA.  Test the same way as the first VCA.

5. From here you can move onto the Filter and ADSR's in any order. If you
build an ADSR next, connect the output into the CV input of the VCA and use
the noise source for an audio signal as in step 3.  If you build the filter,
you can use the LFO or ADSR for a CV signal and the noise source for an
audio signal.

I'm working on a couple of modifications for the ASM-1, namely a range
switch for the LFO to get lower frequencies, the bicolor LED (looks pretty
more than anything!), and switching to allow the glide processor to be used
as exponential or linear.  Later, I'll add an add-on board containing a
sample hold, ring modulator, and some additional waveforms.

When I have these done, I'll post them on my home page.  I'll give the
address when I'm ready and there is something to see!

Bob

  >=== Bob Zimmer -- Philadelphia PA ===<
  >=== bzimmer at voicenet.com          ===<