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1356 Views 2 Replies Latest reply: Apr 27, 2013 11:32 PM by SteveNordquist RSS
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Apr 17, 2013 1:53 PM

How can I find the traces I need ?

I am trying to make a calculator into a counter. I have the calculator and reed switch.

My problem is I can not find the traces that go to the equal button. I am not a tech but I have been asked to do this at work and I would like to make it happen.

I am using a ti 1795 sv calculator. All the traces are on the bottom with the push buttons on top. How do I go about finding the two traces I need ?

  • MetMan Apprentice 86 posts since
    Oct 24, 2011
    Currently Being Moderated
    Apr 18, 2013 9:30 AM (in response to cpett)
    How can I find the traces I need ?

    That may be a multiple layer board with traces inbetween the layers... in that case getting at traces can be very tricky.  Are the push buttons surface mount or through hole?  If through hole you may be able to connect to the pins on the back side; if surface mount it'll be harder.  If you dont have a schematic, then you'll just have to start ohming around with a meter and try to find the traces that are connected to the switch you want.

     

    You may be able to get this working... if it was me and was for work not fun I'd just buy a small counter like this one or maybe this one.

     

    Good luck!

  • SteveNordquist Novice 4 posts since
    Apr 27, 2013
    Currently Being Moderated
    Apr 27, 2013 11:32 PM (in response to cpett)
    How can I find the traces I need ?

    Tachometer hacks to calculators are pretty cool examples of field hacks! Wireless antenna, Q and field pattern acquisition are good ones, too. Strictly speaking you could pop the membrane, feed as strong a signal as you feel safe in (say, 2V trapezoid wave up to 80ma) and use a polarimeter and camera to see which trace is affected most, but if what you have handy is emery paper and a DVM, and nothing from TI as schematic or forum time, strip enough of all traces you want to consider and get it to beep when the sort of key_down deflection you hope for comes (while whaling on the key; or find the polling and deflections topside first.)

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