Simple (8pin) signal splitter

[blueneon]

Hi y'all
I have been thinking about making one signal splitter that is basicly doing the same as a VGA splitter, but with less electronics and pins.

I have 2 separate cables A and B with 8pins each.
Each cable should be splitted to two outputs, at best with a simple button or switch.
So 2xIN to 4xOUT (but as said, two separate circuits because the signals from A and B cable can't be mixed together)

Does anyone have any experience with this type of switch/splitter or any advice with what should I start with?

Tnx in advance

 

[rjenkinsgb]

Is it a splitter, that may connect both outputs at the same time, or is it purely a A/B switch, so the signal never connect to both outputs at the same time?

A simple switch is easy, literally a suitable switch in a casing of some sort with connectors or flying leads.

The hard part is finding a switch with enough contacts at a reasonable price!


A splitter, that may drive two outputs at the same time, may need to be rather more complex & how it works depends on what is being passed through it:
What type of signals are they? What power source, impedance, voltage, load etc.

(Some things can be directly split and connect to two loads, others needs some form of receiver at the input and output drivers to pass on the signals).


Possible switches for the simple type - you need eight pole (or seven pole if ground/0V is unswitched, double throw - 8P2T or 7P2T, in the abbreviated naming:

See "(SWR) 1418" about a third on the way down this page - an "8P2T" configuration one, so a changeover for up to eight signals - though any ground would likely be unswitched>

Miscellaneous Rotary Switches

Miscellaneous Rotary Switches: raise/lower lever switch, Christmas tree switch, ceramic rotary switch, rotary switch for Collins radio, Alps spline shaft rotary switch, ..

www.surplussales.com

To make one up from new parts, you would need two of these four-pole wafers:

454482MK | NSF Rotary Switch Wafer | RS

uk.rs-online.com

and a mechanism to mount them on:

MU454488FPA(MK) | Rotary Switch Shaft Assembly for use with MU-MK Series | RS

uk.rs-online.com

Or a similar switch / parts from other suppliers.


Alternatively, if the signals are all low voltage and low current, you may be able to use a cheap 9 pin RS232 selector switch and just make adapter cables to the type of connectors you need?

2Pcs RS232 2Port Serial 9pin Switch Manual Selector Box 2 in 1 Out | eBay

Suitable for 2-way computer RS232 interface switching, 2 Out. Switching : panel button switching. 2Pcs DB9 Pin Serial Manual Data Switch Box. Manual Share Switch Box: No need to unplug and plug in wires when changing from different serial devices such as printers, computers.

www.ebay.co.uk