will
Member
I have a couple old-style game paddles with the IC type connector. I'd like to use them with the db-9 port on my 2e. Any advice on how to do that?
Will
Will
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converting old paddle connector to db-9
- Thread starter will
- Start date
bugman2112
Experienced Member
I've made some adapters recently. Not too difficult if you don't mind a bit of soldering. I purchased a DB-9 connector and a 16 pin IC socket from radioshack (you can mail order these from an electronic parts online store as well like Jameco). Then using some small guage wire, I wired the connections on the pins underneath the IC socket to the DB-9 connector. Works like a charm. Just plug your old style paddels into the IC socket. The pinouts for the DB-9 and the old 16 pin are easily found by searching the net. The apple FAQs have them, as well as, the actual reference manuals for the ][+ and //e.
You can put as much time as you want on the finsihing touches to make it look more "commercial". I usually use tape and epoxy to cover the connections and created more rugged connectors.
You can put as much time as you want on the finsihing touches to make it look more "commercial". I usually use tape and epoxy to cover the connections and created more rugged connectors.
will
Member
I've made some adapters recently. Not too difficult if you don't mind a bit of soldering. I purchased a DB-9 connector and a 16 pin IC socket from radioshack (you can mail order these from an electronic parts online store as well like Jameco). Then using some small guage wire, I wired the connections on the pins underneath the IC socket to the DB-9 connector. Works like a charm. Just plug your old style paddels into the IC socket. The pinouts for the DB-9 and the old 16 pin are easily found by searching the net. The apple FAQs have them, as well as, the actual reference manuals for the ][+ and //e.
You can put as much time as you want on the finsihing touches to make it look more "commercial". I usually use tape and epoxy to cover the connections and created more rugged connectors.
Great, thanks, I'll try it. I haven't done any soldering since high school, but I suppose it shouldn't be too hard.
Do you happen to know if it's possible to open the case on the old paddles? I'm sure the contacts will need cleaning.
Will
bugman2112
Experienced Member
I've never encountered a set of paddels, or a joystick, that I couldn't open. Just look for the screws. Just be careful as you dissassemble. Sometimes the buttons or the potentiometers are held in place by groves in the actual case. They can fall loose if your not careful. It is not a problem to put them back, but if you didn't note exactly how they looked, it can take a while to figure it out.
Some people use spray contact cleaner for the button contacts and potentiometers. I use 91% IPA found at most pharamacies. I have actually been able to restore completely non-fucntional buttons on joydsticks. Apply a little IPA, then actuate the button or POT. Repeat until you get good results. Of course, I have run accross a few that were machanically worn and therefore unrepairable by this method.
P.S. I know this is obvious, but for anyone else who reads this, I justed wanted to note that the apple //e computers still have the old IC style connection on the motherboard so this adapter is not essestial. I made mine because I didn't want to open the case for every change. Also, it always made me a bit uncomfortable putting undue stress on these old motherboards.
P.S. #2 - I just located a couple of places on the net that still sell this adaptor. I like soldering projects, but if you don't want to deal with it, this is another option. http://www.connections-usa.com/L5277-legacy.html
Some people use spray contact cleaner for the button contacts and potentiometers. I use 91% IPA found at most pharamacies. I have actually been able to restore completely non-fucntional buttons on joydsticks. Apply a little IPA, then actuate the button or POT. Repeat until you get good results. Of course, I have run accross a few that were machanically worn and therefore unrepairable by this method.
P.S. I know this is obvious, but for anyone else who reads this, I justed wanted to note that the apple //e computers still have the old IC style connection on the motherboard so this adapter is not essestial. I made mine because I didn't want to open the case for every change. Also, it always made me a bit uncomfortable putting undue stress on these old motherboards.
P.S. #2 - I just located a couple of places on the net that still sell this adaptor. I like soldering projects, but if you don't want to deal with it, this is another option. http://www.connections-usa.com/L5277-legacy.html
Last edited:
Druid6900
Veteran Member
Great, thanks, I'll try it. I haven't done any soldering since high school, but I suppose it shouldn't be too hard.
Do you happen to know if it's possible to open the case on the old paddles? I'm sure the contacts will need cleaning.
Will
If the thing has rubber feet on it, try prying them off. Maunufacturers loved hiding the screws under them.