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by a2800276 1552 days ago
The cable/connector does indeed look interesting, if easily available ... possibly with more pins... I wish they had more details, from the thumbnail[0] they posted of the board edge PCB footprint, I don't see how it could be reversible... The short finger (presumably VDD) would need to be on opposing sides top and bottom, and it's always on the right. Or is my thinking messed up?

[0]: https://microsoft.github.io/jacdac-docs/overview/connectorca...
1 comments
jamesadevine 1552 days ago
It is reversible! The reversibility is largely provided by the PCB edge connector as you've identified. More details here [0]

[0] - https://microsoft.github.io/jacdac-docs/ddk/design/#pcb-edge...

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gbraad 1552 days ago
The original jackplug was also just as simple. Instead of 3.5 they could have gone for the 2.5" to avoid confusion as an audio out. But the new proposed cable? Is it available? Seems to be more work to offer.

/me checks taobao again

Nope, still not.

Kittenbot devices came with a standard audio jackplug. Easy cabling, off the shelf.

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camtarn 1552 days ago
Ah, was that the origin of the name I wonder? Definitely would have been a nice idea. I'm also not fond of the custom connector.
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camtarn 1552 days ago
Although, thinking about it, I wonder if the connector is designed for sequencing (power/ground first, then data) and if the linear insertion of the jack plug caused issues with that, since when the plug is being inserted the connector nearest to the outside contacts all three of the rings on the jack in turn.
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gbraad 1552 days ago
Yep, it wasn't perfect and might cause issues with shorting the terminals briefly.

But this wasn't originally for rocket science, but simple DIY projects or kids projects. If repositioned it will have a hard time getting adopted.

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