This is the more 'conventional' solution of addressing the issues with my v1.7 VirtualCables. I'm keeping my really exciting solution under wraps until and unless I get all my materials and test pieces in and guarantee an easy, solid solution.
Changes from v1.7:
- Change from a Type B cable (connective ends on opposing layers) to Type A (connective ends on same layers). This means the end of the 'normal' installation method of pulling solder up and over pins, and the official adoption of the 'revised' installation method, whereby the user applies the soldering iron to the back side of the cable in order to heat the pads, thereby melting the solder and creating an incredibly strong mechanical/electrical connection.
- Removal of castellated holes from 0.6mm-pitch side. They have been replaced by normal holes, intended for orientation rather than connection. There simply wasn't enough metal mass on the cable ends to form a good connection with castellations.
- Addition of pads for unconnected pads on board. I determined it was too easy for a user to simply miscount or slip while soldering, so the additional 6 dummy pads have been re-introduced in order to eliminate potential installation pitfalls.
- Introduction of test point vias. With the adaptation of the revised installation method, users need an easy way to make sure that their connections are good. Thus, each signal is given an individual, un-tented via (including both GND signals, though this is more for symmetry rather than effect) so that users may quickly and efficiently test each soldered connection one-by-one.
- Elongation of the Motherboard-Side Stiffener. The v1.7 Stiffener was determined to be useable, but too short for comfort or ease-of-use. Therefore, the length of the stiffener has been tripled, which should allow for a comfortable ZIF experience.
- Castellated cutouts for stability. On the LED board, the outermost pads branch out into geometric designs. Utterly useless for its intended function, but by introducing unconnected castellated cutouts, users will be able to orient the cable and use those stylistic pads to tack the cable in place without the possibility of damaging anything by having to remove and resolder a poorly oriented cable.
Attach file:
VirtualCable 2.0.png (50.00 KB)
Edited by RetroDan on 2019/7/7 21:47