Controller build - problem with x-fader

[salvador]

Hello,
I'm currently building a fairly basic controller for traktor, based on the u-hid chip. I'm having some problems trying to get a x-fader to work well though.

I have tried a standard cheap linear pot that had a horrible feel to it and didn't seem to be linear at all (perhaps the shop gave me the wrong part).

Also tried ripping the x-fader out of my 2channel numark mixer which works, but only across the middle section of the track (where the carbon is thinner).

Basically I'm after a high quality linear sliding pot, can anybody suggest one?
I wondered if a x-fader from a more expensive mixer (with adjustable curve) would be linear?

would be grateful for any help.
Ben

[kaleaf]

sup salvador,

I got this one on mouser

http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/...SJ8GW14g%3d%3d

bourns 10k $13.60 mouser catalog pg 697


I would guess the one from your mixer is not the right electrical restiance (10k) because it has a audio signal going through the fader and not just a 5v signal. This one is a large x-fader style with very little physical restiance. So its just for the x-fade and not for the line faders where you would want physical restiance. Anyway I have one in my hands right now and I can flick the cap with 1 finger and it travels the whole 60mm length easily.

If you need any help with the u-hid I have one and so do a few others here. How do you like yours so far? Are you just starting your project? If you need links to 10k pots and 10k slide pots for line faders hit me up. Also most linear faders say type "b" on them.


http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/5694/dsc00180c.jpg

[salvador]

Thanks for your help kaleaf,
That looks like just what I'm after, although it's too deep for my enclosure (going for a v.compact basic controller). Have you used any of the others on that page? I'm tempted to take a punt on one of the shallower ones, but would like to know what they feel like first.
Got on all right with the u-hid so far (just done basic tests), although I have found that the config software only works on my work PC, not either of my home PCs.
Has anybody else had any problems running u-config? (I have microsoft .NET installed).

[kaleaf]

Thanks for your help kaleaf,
That looks like just what I'm after, although it's too deep for my enclosure (going for a v.compact basic controller).

For the one we were looking at it would be 1 3/4 in deep needed(you proably checked)

I have some of the led faders and they have to much restiance for a x-fade IMO, like a standard line fader.

So if you look at the data sheets on the mouser page for each one click on the part on the catalog then on the mouser website for the part each one will have a data sheet pdf with more specs. Each one lists a operational force. Who knows if thats accurate though and the different brands list it differently.

If you live in the US the it might be worth $5 to try out this one

http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/...Zf7YL3ug%3d%3d

[salvador]

Right then...I'm aiming for a final push to get this thing finished but still need to source a couple of bits.

I'm going to go for that slider you mention from mouser (shipping to uk only £12). Thanks Kaleaf.

Any recommendations for a nice rotary pot? The few that I've tried have had too much physical resistance for my liking.
I'm after one that turns easily, like you'd find on a synth or something similar.

Thanks!

bm