questions about homemade passthrus

[dizzzyimaloser]

hi!

i just made my home made passthru and am very excited about it! i tried researching a little but cant understand what voltage I'm getting from it? and why does everyone say a computer is not as good as a different device? also with the momtary switch the one that I'm getting for it (because I'm trying to do this project for virtually free) have 4 legs on them, any idea which legs to use? thanks!

 

[AttyPops]

hi!

Hello

i just made my home made passthru and am very excited about it!

Good. If you were not excited about it, we wouldn't bother answering! Glad to hear you made one, but I see you have more questions...................

i tried researching a little but cant understand what voltage I'm getting from it?

A direct-PT (no Battery) is 5 volts (or close to it depending on what the power supply can put out). You should get a multi-meter if at all possible. Maybe use some of that saved-up cig money..... seriously handy device, especially for modding.

and why does everyone say a computer is not as good as a different device?

USB ports don't usually put out enough amps. If they do, a PT is hard on them. A computer mobo is expensive. A $10.00, 2 amp wall wart is not. Get the wall wart (AC transformers with USB).

also with the momtary switch the one that I'm getting for it (because I'm trying to do this project for virtually free) have 4 legs on them, any idea which legs to use?

Yeah, the opposite corner ones... test with that multi-meter you got from above. There should be no continuity when the button is not pressed, continuity when pressed. Of course, lacking a multi-meter, you can use a battery/resistor/LED and some wires hooked up to test the button. You should get the meter though. (and LEDs only work in one direction BTW... short leg usually is to ground side).

Also, that is a 3.0 amp button right? If not, it will melt/fry/fail quickly. Unless you use a MOSFET (do a search for that or browse this sub-forum). The button is the one thing you might wish to fork over the cash for, if you can't find a hefty one. I say this as good advice since button failure is a PITA and is all too common.

thanks!

np

P.S. If you're switching to e-cigs that's a positive step... so you can't be a loser..... time to change usernames! How about "dizzzyimawinner" or "dizzyimsmokefree" ? LOL. JK. Keep your chin up! Good Luck!

 

[dizzzyimaloser]

wow atty! thank you very much! that was very very helpful! I'm not sure what switch I'm getting because i work at a factory that makes electronics so we have a few different kinds, ill have to do some research when i go to work tomorrow (snow day today here in CT ) but thank you again! i will def have to get a milti meter because this modding thing is ADDICTING! im already working on a flashlight mod