Switches ratings and adding leds

[akkar]

Hello everyone!

The tonestack in my new project is basically the Dumble overdrive spec one.

I'd like to add some leds to the switches circled in red. How would you do that?

Also can I use small pushbuttons rated 0.4VA @ 28VAC?

Thanks

 

[DF96]

I assume you mean 0.4A @ 28VAC. Yes, they should be fine for switching audio provided there is no large DC standing voltage too.

To add an LED you need an extra pole on the switch to switch the LED supply. Some switches may have an LED built-in.

 

[akkar]

No it's 0.4VA

See here

 

[DF96]

OK. I didn't know switches that small were made.

 

[Frank Berry]

You would need an additional switch section to power the LED.
For SW2 and SW4, you would need a DPST switch.
For SW3, you would need a 3PDT switch.

 

[akkar]

Thanks for the suggestions!

OK. I didn't know switches that small were made.

But even 0,4VA would be enough for switching in those position, right?


Another thing about choosing the right component for the front control panel (pots, switches, jacks...).
I was planning to use a pcb there too (vertical or horizontal), but I realize now that it is very difficult to find components that once installed on the pcb will align on the frontal panel horizontal axis (center of the knobs aligned with center of jacks...).

how do people usually solve this?
Simply not using a pcb board there but components with solder lugs and using wires to the main board?

Thanks

 

[DF96]

You need to design the PCB with specific components in mind. The datasheets will give you the information you need to do this. Alternatively, take the controls off the PCB and wire them to it.

 

[akkar]

Yes is that what I mean, it's very difficult to find components with same horizontal axis when mounted.

 

[nigelwright7557]

Another thing about choosing the right component for the front control panel (pots, switches, jacks...).
I was planning to use a pcb there too (vertical or horizontal), but I realize now that it is very difficult to find components that once installed on the pcb will align on the frontal panel horizontal axis (center of the knobs aligned with center of jacks...).

how do people usually solve this?
Simply not using a pcb board there but components with solder lugs and using wires to the main board?

Thanks

The best way to align components with holes and a pcb is to put all the components through the holes on the panel loosely then put pcb over components, tighten components and then solder.

 

[akkar]

Ok, but what I mean is finding components that once installed are at the same height.

As you can see if I align those components only pots leads can be soldered on the board, unfortunately is difficult to find for example swtiches with long leads

 

[WntrMute2]

I would try soldering some extensions on to the short leads. Easy to use the snipped-off leads of some other component.