3 replies to this topic

[Dan Morphis]

This isn't strictly Netduino related...

While prototyping a circuit to interface with my Netduino, I grew tired of disconnecting and reconnecting the micro USB cable. So I decided to build an on/off switch into a USB cable. V1 worked well, but looked really ghetto.

So I bought a USB B female, and USB A female, switch and project box. I did some fabrication on the project box, and some soldering, and now I have a much better looking on/off switch for USB power.

If your going to make your own, you need to put your switch on the +5v wire (pin 1 - red).

[ItsDan]

I save the wear and tear on my netduino by unplugging the computer end of it.

[Dan Morphis]

I save the wear and tear on my netduino by unplugging the computer end of it.

But then you push the wear off onto the USB host connector on your computer. If you read up on it, USB connectors are only rated for so many insertions. Its 1,500 IIRC for USB A.

Plus, a switch is more convenient for me.

[Omar (OZ)]

But then you push the wear off onto the USB host connector on your computer. If you read up on it, USB connectors are only rated for so many insertions. Its 1,500 IIRC for USB A.

Plus, a switch is more convenient for me.

You make a good point! This is why I use USB extension cables on my computer, the computer's end stays in all the time. Though I do think your switch is very practical. The little black box earns you massive geek points in my book (good thing) ... if you add this: http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9278 you will get evil genius geek points (the best of them all)

very cool Dan M