Adapting for switch use:
This rough guide explains how to adapt a 'Chaserz' Scalextric style racing game for disability standard
switch use.
If you're an absolute beginner, we strongly recommend that you follow "The
Basic Soldering Guide" - by Alan Winstanley.
SAFETY: Adapting equipment voids the manufacturer's guarantee, and the attempt
may cause irreparable damage. Always use adapted equipment under supervision,
and disconnect any batteries when not in use. These adaptations are at your own
risk.
You can obtain Chaserz racing sets from Boots
for around £15. I strongly recommend that you test your set before carrying
out any work on it, to ensure that all is working as it should and that both cars
run at the same speed. All other components are commonly available from Electronics
stores such as Maplin Electronics.
|
| | 1. What you will need: | |
| |
|
Chaserz racing game; 2x 3.5mm mono headphone socket; thin wire (e.g 7strand
0.2mm).
Soldering iron (15 to 30 Watt power); thin solder; soldering flux; desoldering
braid.
Cordless drill with 2 drill bits (1x 1/4"; 1x 2mm / very small); knife or wire
strippers; small screwdriver set.
|
| | 2. Drill a hole: | |
| |
|
Open up the casing. Make a small pilot hole where there is enough space to
house your 3.5mm socket. Drill a 1/4" hole as pictured on both hand controls.
|
| | 3. Solder your socket | |
| |
|
As not all sockets are connected alike, you will need to find which 2
of the 3 contacts you need to solder to.
Attach a test lamp or multi-meter to any 2 contacts. Plug in your switch, then
press it. If the lamp comes on when pressed you have the right connections, otherwise
try a different combination. There's only 3 possibilities.
Solder two lengths of wire to the socket. Expose the ends, tinning them if you
wish. |
| | 4. Solder to the controller | |
| |
|
Solder your socket to the two points that give your car the most speed.
|
| | 5. Test then Race! | |
| |
|
Test both units with a switch several times, then leave them alone for
a few minutes. If the cars move by them selves repeatedly, there's probably a
short circuit. Pull the appropriate controller apart again, and examine the accuracy
of your soldering carefully, especially on the socket.
Have fun!
|
Text and images PUBLIC DOMAIN 2004 - www.OneSwitch.org.uk
Chaserz (c) Wanted Ltd.
 
|
