MOTM

Last time I wrote, it was to announce the finish of the dual ribbon 
controller project (finally!  Check out Stooge Larry's site for the 
pdf files detailing that build-up)only to have my 4 year old grandson 
tell me "it's too big".  Male "size issues" notwithstanding, I set 
out to design and build a controller that would:

1. Fit Malachi's hands and level of development

2. Allow him to control two parameters with maximum entertainment 
value (for him, anyway)

3. Be remote from the Engine of Chaos, connecting with long enough 
cables to allow Malachi to sit on the floor and make noises with 
Grampa's synth.  This will keep him busy enough to not have to play 
with the synth knobs and cables.

The device is relatively simple, using two XR2206 function generators 
to provide sine and triangle waves.  One 2206 can be switched between 
the two, and each is set up for a different frequency range-one ultra 
slow and one going up to about 800Hz.  With one 9V battery, the 
symmetrical sine wave will have a 6 V p-p amplitude.  The triangle 
wave will go to about 8 V p-p. 

Control of output frequency and amplitude of each device is provided 
by two cheap-o x-y joysticks.  These have 150K ohm miniature pots and 
the mechanisms seem sturdy enough to handle Malachi's... er, 
technique.  The whole thing is squeezed into a 6"x2"x2" abs project 
box from Radio Shack.

Naturally, after playing with his new toy for about 5 minutes, 
Malachi decided he'd rather play Grampa's drum kit.  No matter, I 
like it just fine!

Anyone interested in the schematic or pcb layout can email me.

Chub