Backplane


PCB reference RU80068.1


Estimated building time: 2,5 hours


To complete this step the PCB with reference RU80068.1 is required.

Elektor Vocoder

Sort all required components as indicated in the BOM:

For the extended version of the vocoder (the model with the sibilance expansion) cut the connection between pin 4 & pin 5 on the solder side of the PCB. Do not cut the connection between pin 2 & pin 3.

This step is only applicable for the prototyping boards:


On the other hand for the production run boards, bridge the carrier jumper at the solder side of the PCB. Leave the voice jumper open execpt if you want to use the vocoder is the basic configuration (without the sibilance expansion).

Cut the trace leaving at pin 12 left from the connector labeled LOW. Do this both on the component side as well as in the solder side from the PCB. This step is only applicable for the prototyping boards:

Bend the resistors so that they fit neatly right away:


Solder the resistors on the right position:


Put the LED in its place. The long wire (anode) does correspond with the + in the PCB:


Place one of the connectors into the board, do not exert any excessive force. Be carefull not to bend the pins:


Solder only pin 1 and pin 21 and check for a right angle:


Correct if necessary and solder all remaining pins:

Elektor Vocoder

Double check not to skip one of the soldering tabs, sometimes it's hard to see skipped holes:


Use a pliers to press all solder pins into the PCB. The solder pins should have a diameter of 1 mm, the holes in the PCB have the same size. So firmly press the pins into the right positions:

Check if the pins are alligned, before soldering:


Insert all electrolytic capacitors (e-caps), no chance of mistakes as they have all the same value. Solder only 1 of both legs, this allows lining up the components. Watch the polarity, correct if necessary and solder all remaining legs:


Do not install C76 & C78 around the 3 connectors on the left, labeled COM, DET & NOISE.
This step is only applicable for the prototyping boards:


The polarity indication on the silkscreen for C77 and C78 has been inverted, so do not use this indication as reference but rely on the picture below.
This step is only applicable for the prototyping boards:

 

Thoroughly clean the PCB using flux cleaner and check for bad soldering or tin bulbs:

Elektor Vocoder

Well done

Congratulations, you have finished the back plane section, click here to navigate back to the building guide.

Disclaimer

The contents of this document are provided as-is. The published information could contain technical inaccuracies, typographical errors and out-of-date information. This document may be updated or changed without notice at any time. Use of the information is therefore at your own risk without any liability for special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages resulting from or related to the use of this document.