FA Support specialist Yury Mendez of 801 Mods took some time to explain how the Philmore 12-Terminal Euro Style Barrier Strip functions, plus provide an introduction to its use in a dual console configuration:
Hello - I will illustrate how the Philmore terminal strip works and some of the main features that can be accomplished while using the product.
Tools I used for this mod:
- Wire strippers & wire cutters
- Quick disconnects
- 22 gauge wire
- Small slotted screwdriver
- Soldering iron and Solder for the pcbs
(Fig. 0: Photo example of Philmore Euro Style Barrier Strip)
The above photo (Fig. 0) is the 12 terminal strip from Philmore. How it works is rather simple: it takes one signal coming through the terminal block and outputs it to the other end; both of the ends connect to each other. There are two primary reasons to use a terminal strip: First, it is easier to track the wiring; instead of going to the pinout that you soldered to, you can simply glance at your terminal strip to troubleshoot an issue. Second, it combines multiple inputs into one output; this allows you to perform LED mods and for dual mods, as all signals must be connected in order for the mod(s) to be completed successfully.
(Fig. 1: Illustrating that wire can feed through the terminal block )
The photo above (Fig. 1) illustrates that the terminal block goes all the way through on both sides. This is how the terminal strip is designed; it takes the inputs on one side to a single or multiple output on the other end.
Let's review how this could work for a dual mod. In this example, I am using the original Xbox 360 joypad along with the Hori Fighting Commander 3 Pro PCB. Both are common ground, which allow us to create a dual mod In the photo below (Fig. 2) I am connecting two grounds together.
Note: This is actually not necessary if you dual mod ground two ground wires together; you will already share the ground with the other PCB’s. This is often due to the use of Toodles Imp v2 - an automatic switcher - or a physical switch.
(Fig. 2: Connecting two grounds together)
As you can see in the next photo (Fig. 3), I attached the two wires together and fed it through the first side of the terminal block. After this side of the wiring is complete, I will to screw the terminal down to make certain it is secure; you never know when something can fall out. Additionally, make sure that the wire does not go all the way through the opposite side.
(Fig. 3: Feeding wires through first side of terminal block)
In the next photo (Fig. 4) you see the output wire. This output block is now outputting the grounds of signals from both Xbox 360 and Hori FC PS3 controller PCB’s.
(Fig. 4: Outputting grounds of signals from Xbox 360 and PS3 joypads)
Now, the daisy chain quick disconnect wire provides a ground that you can use as multiple grounds in future projects, such as: buttons, optical items, LED mods, and the joystick. See Fig. 5:
(Fig. 5: Daisy chain quick disconnect useful for future projects)
In this scenario (Fig. 6), I attached the two wires which represent the the "A" button on Xbox 360 joypad, and and "X" button on the PS3 PCB. As always, make sure the wires are secured and that you screw down the wiring nice and firm, ensuring the connection is complete.
(Fig. 6: Attaching "A" and "X" button signals from Xbox 360 and PS3 joypads)
In the next photo (Fig. 7) I successfully attached the wire to the other side, then attached it to the button that I will be using for A and X. With both boards wired together with VCC and ground, the signal is complete. This button will now work as "A" from Xbox 360 joypad or "X" from the PS3 joypad, depending on what PCB is active active with my DPDT switch or IMP.
(Fig. 7: Input signal from button now works as "A" or "X" button, depending on which PCB is active)
The next photo (Fig. 8) illustrates a single joypad PCB connection. The same result as the previous photos is achieved here. My ground connections are available for any other projects, plus my A button is wired up so that I can assess the length of wire needed to reach the button inside the case.
With wiring completed, and connected to the barrier strip, consider where you will place the strip. I would recommend mounting it with some double sided tape on its underside (Fig. 9: See black bars), or you can screw on the thread of the terminal strip for a more secure mount (Fig. 9: See purple circles).
Comments