MalaHW
Low-cost driver board for devices such as LEDs, solenoids, lamps etc
Ideal for use with our UltraLux illuminated pushbuttons
Will drive up to 16 standard LEDs with no additional power.
Up to 4 boards can be used (more by request). Different IDs available.
500mA per channel
500mA total current without external power supply. Higher current draw will require additional power.
5 volt outputs without external power supply.
Up to 48 volt outputs with external power supply.
Open-Source software. No driver required.
Downloadable example VB application.
C++ code on request.
Support as a LED driver for several MAME front-ends soon.
Click for Order Page
Basic Connection Method The picture below shows a schematic representation of 3 LEDs connected. These are 5 volt LEDs as used in our UltraLux buttons In actual usage the connections would be made using quick-disconnects to the button lampholder. up to 16 can be connected in this way. No external power required. To simplify connection, for the power "daisy-chain" you can use our pre-made daisy-chain harness.
Advanced Connection Methods For connecting devices requiring a higher total current than 500mA for all devices, or devices requiring more than 5 volts, Instead of connecting the red power "daisy chain" to the "+" connection on the PCB, simply connect to an appropriate voltage source. For example a PC disk power connector will provide 12 volts through the yellow wire. When powering from a PC, there is no need for a ground wire since the ground return is via the shield of the USB cable.
IMPORTANT: When connecting solenoids you must connect a diode across each coil to eliminate "back-EMF" discharge through the driver board. The diode is connected with the end marked with a line to the power-supply end of the coil.
Software Click here to download sample VB application with source.