[sdiy] newbie with some questions

[Jim Patchell]

Matt Olech wrote:

> Hi, these are probably some dumb questions, but i was hoping you guys
> wouldnt mind helping me out a little.
> I want to start on a modular, but i'm not sure how to go about starting... i
> know the basics (i.e. i know what an oscillator and a filter do, and i know
> how to solder)
> my biggest question is how does the power supply hook up? do i run a line
> from the supply to each module, or do i run from the supply to one module
> and then hook each module up to the preceding or what? are there any other
> general pointers you can give me, or are there any books on building modular
> synths specifically that I can check out?
>

    First the books...there are really no books that I know of that are
currently in print on building modulars.  However, in the out of print books,
try to locate a copy of Musical Applications of Microprocessors.   This book is
a wealth of information.

    Powersupply distribution.  Running distribution lines from the power supply
to each module is the best way to do it.  This makes what is called a star
connection at the power supply terminals...however, this can get a bit messy.  I
asked about powersupply distribution boards a couple of weeks ago, and was
pointed to 3 places.  Synthesis Technology has a very nice distribution board.
Blacet has a nice one (http://www.blacet.com) and Tony Allgood has a nice one as
well (he is in the UK).  I only put up Blacets URL only because he has an easy
one to remember (and the remember part of my brain is not what it used to be),
not because I have any particular preference....hmmm...I am tasting shoe lether
in my mouth...

    Anyway, one of the power distribution boards is a good way to go, because it
is sort of like a star connection.

    Daisy chaining the power from one module to the next is the least
preferable.  If one module puts a momentary demand on the power, like an LED
coming on, all of the other module are going to see this.  However, I even have
to admit to wiring stuff like this when I am in a hurry...

    -Jim

>
> thanks for your time.
>
> -Matt
>
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