August 8th, 2024
“A module that allows me to line in triggers or audio sources to a channel and then have that change act basically as a gate to turn various lights on and off. That way the lights aren't really tied to an sound spectrum but rather the parts/instruments I assign to each channel.”
A Control-Voltage to DMX converter eurorack module
...Is what Anthony described to me at Fire Lights Music festival this summer.
November 11th, 2024 - Layout Design
There are two ways I can take this
Option 1) Few inputs, Small HP, chainable
- Lower cost per unit, but vastly more expensive if users want to have more outputs
- Lower bar to entry with only a few CV inputs for a few lights, wider market.
- Smaller HP width → larger market
Designs 1,2, and 3 follow this idea with a minimal footprint but limited Functionality
Option 2) Many inputs, largeish HP, Skip the chainable SW
- Lower cost for many inputs
- Probably less work to design, no need for chaining.
- How many inputs are actually useful?
Design number 4 boasts 8 CV inputs that can alll be maped to a singel DMX Universe. The design is not very visually appealing, but that can be fixed.
I'd really like to try using an ESP32-S3. However this microcontroller is likely way overkill, and significantly more expensive than the tried and true AtMega328p. The ESP also takes up more real estate requiring external flash, and an additional 3.3V power regulator.
But, If I build my own confidence in ESP, then I have a MUCH faster, more powerful microcontroller for larger more complex projects. 20 ADCs! Using only 4 for the CV-DMX seems like a waste of power, especially if I want to make this module chainable.