[sdiy] optical retrofit for minis?

[Kevin Lightner]

>This might be a dumb idea, but I never cease to be amazed at how dusty and
>dingy my computer keyboard gets over time, and yet still remains
>glitch-free.  I think PC keyboards are made with capacitive switches, no?  I
>havent seen them mentioned as a possible alternative for music keyboards,
>but I just thought I would throw another idea into the mix...
>
>Dave


PC keyboards are generally resistive coupled, but working at logic levels.
Their contacts are often conditioned by a schmitt trigger and have 
debounce delays and other circuitry past the contacts for rollover 
and deglitching.

The contacts in a mini carry the true, variable CV. Even the 
slightest dirt will act as a resistor or insulator and mess with it. 
It's why membrane keyboards are generally unacceptable for analog 
uses.
Also, the mini uses a timing scheme in which the CV is first 
generated, then the gate, which activates a sample and hold to keep 
the CV remaining after the key has released.

Great idea, but one of those digital vs analog thangs... :)

-- 
Regards,
Kevin Lightner

Myself: http://www.synthfool.com
Service and sales: http://www.moogmusic.com/service.php
Sales: http://www.cluboftheknobs.com