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Version 1 of my switchbox was for 3 headlamps:
Version 2 was almost the same, but for 4 headlamps.
Version 3 is for 4 headlamps or taillamps: Walnut veneer front (I'm not kidding), 8x Miyama switches to switch headlamps/taillamps, switch between 2 inputs (could be dynamos), to switch poles for a direct current power source (Sunup Eco or battery or regulated voltage source) and for the status LEDs. 15 x 3mm status LEDs powered by 2xAA rechargeable batteries. Inputs from battery/dynamo/voltage source using banana plugs or clamps, outputs to taillamp/headlamp using clamps, 4.8mm connectors, 2.8mm connectors, banana plugs. Then a separate thingy with StVZO testing resistors.
2016-3-3: If there is interest, I will make v4 available for sale. I only use top quality components, and price will thus not be low. The Miyama switches alone already cost about 40 euro... Total component cost will be a lot higher, with 4x2 banana plugs (gold plated) and LEDs, battery holder for 2x AAA to power the status LEDs (they are not powered from the dynamo/external DC power supply).
Features (design finalised as of 20-3-2016):
- Switch for power to the status LEDs
- The status LEDs are powered with 2x Eneloop AAA batteries.
- Switch for serial/parallel mode
- 4 x switch to switch on/off 4 headlamps/taillamps
- In parallel mode: 4 lamps can be switched on/off, all can be on at the same time in parallel mode (useful to compare taillamps).
- In serial mode: 2 lamps can be switched on/off to run in series or just one of them, to see if serial running of 2 headlamps works well at a given speed. This is meant for higher speeds because most dynamos are near current sources, so current doesn't change much, voltage goes up with speed. The other 2 head/taillamp outputs are disabled in this mode...
- Switch for overvoltage protection (for parallel mode all lamps, for serial mode each of lamp 1-2 its own protection)
- Input of dynamo/DC power with 4mm banana plugs
- Outputs to lamps with 4mm banana plugs, 4.8mm flat plugs, 2.8mm flat plugs 2mm banana plugs and a clamp system.
This could be useful for bikeshops, or even people reviewing bike lamps :) If interested send me an email.
First version was rather simple for 4 headlamps using a klickfix mount which doesn't work well. To be honest, klickfix handlebar mounts are complete and utter crap because whatever you put on it will vibrate or rotate around the handlebar if it's reasonably heavy, such as a basket or handlebar bag with anything in it.
2nd version: Description to follow.
2016-3-3: I will make something very different... Hopefully soon.
Description to follow.
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Last modified: 2016-3-20