11 replies to this topic

[DDH69]

So, version 5 of DOFLinx is underway.  A few new features are planned plus a bit of experimentation.

 

At present, I have a working Beta with native recognition and use of a Pinscape device.  This means the correct number of output ports can be recognised, and the outputs can use a true 255 PWM output settings not the 48 that come with emulating a LEDWiz.  Unfortunately, I have not been able to find a way if the Pinscape is in LEDWiz emulation to only have the Pinscape device available and suppress the emulated LEDWiz.  Still working on that one ……. I welcome input on how to do that.

 

 

I have added a new feature that allows for “Settings” to be controlled in the cabinet using output devices and relays.  This is not for controlling DOFLinx settings, rather custom settings in your cabinet that have electrical circuitry to support them.  For example I can turn on / off my undercabinet lighting from this settings menu without adjusting my configuration.  This will not appeal to everyone, but I certainly plan to use it!

 

 

The next experimentation part is to try and get addressable LEDs working from Pinball FX2 and FP.  So far I’ve only just received my Teensy …. About to start on some investigation and programming.

[Slydog43]

Great timing, I hope to have a pinscape board complete within a few days.  Looking forward to testing this out.  Good luck, much appreciated

[Outhere]

I just install addressable LEDs

You have done great things with this software

   Thank you

[DDH69]

Today I moved the V5 beta from my study, where the development happens on a standard PC with an output device attached, to the cabinet in the man cave.  I fired it up in anger after installing my new Pinscape device and I now have 3 DOFLinx devices, 1 Pinscape (no LEDWiz emulation) and 2 x LEDWiz (real not emulated) ..... all is well.

 

The Pinscape is working wonderfully for nudging, which was the real reason I got it.  I have no toys connected to my Pinscape, so Slydog43, if you are happy to test out the native Pinscape device in DOFLinx instead of LEDWiz emulation I'm happy to send you a beta version, just PM me.  I can see no reason it will not work, but it would be nice to confirm this.

 

I did some more work once it hit my cabinet to ensure people can still use DOFLinx with the current main branch of the DOF R3 Framework, as well as the mjr branch with Pinscape extensions.  To use DOFLinx v5.0 with the non Pinscape DOF Framework will just require a new command line parameter to be added (PINSCAPE=NO)

 

I also got the settings pop up appearing, saving and reappearing on my third monitor (DMD).  This makes the settings popup look a bit like the ROM setup when activated.

 

Tomorrow I may even construct my Teensy and Octo ready for some more experimentation.  I don't have any LEDs yet, so not sure I can get too far!

[Outhere]

What do you think of the idea of having your software activate a b2s back glass for the FX2 games

[DDH69]

Hmm interesting idea.  I presume you are looking to get an active backglass with the FX2 game triggers?

 

I know nothing about calling a B2S backglass, but am prepared to learn if someone is prepared to write one for a test FX2 game.

[DDH69]

What do you think of the idea of having your software activate a b2s back glass for the FX2 games

 

Damn you for placing crazy ideas in my head 

 

Are you volunteering to test? 

[Outhere]

Damn you for placing crazy ideas in my head -- < LOL

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I'd be willing to do some testing - But I know nothing about making back glasses or how all this stuff actually works, no very little about coding....
I didn't know if you could possibly put something in the Ini file and then have the back glass be the same name as the game and maybe use the controller VBS file to start the back glass....

[DDH69]

Damn you for placing crazy ideas in my head -- < LOL

-

I'd be willing to do some testing - But I know nothing about making back glasses or how all this stuff actually works, no very little about coding....
I didn't know if you could possibly put something in the Ini file and then have the back glass be the same name as the game and maybe use the controller VBS file to start the back glass....

 

PM conversation on the way!

[DDH69]

Just to update on the status of the addressable LEDs, they haven't been forgotten.  I'm still working on my hardware build and waiting on a couple of parts - hopefully arriving during next week.

[DDH69]

Another update on the addressable LEDs.

 

My array is built, a few finishing touches to go.  I've built a 1m wide wall hanging (I didn't want them in my machine but needed the toy!).  It has 8 strips of 1m (144 LED), so 1152 LEDs in total.  Super bright when they are all white!

 

I must say, thanks TerryRed for the help.

 

I built the frame, it has ends on it now (just no pictures yet).  I will add a smoked perspex cover soon then hang it on the wall next to the pinball machine.  I have yet to build in the PSU and USB port to the cabinet.  The power to the array will be controlled via a relay, and using the popup "settings" menu of DOFLinx I can turn the hardware on / off at will using the flipper buttons!  The idea is that I can move the array to my upstairs test / dev machine.  I have a second PSU and connectors.  The power connectors are Anderson high current connectors with cable that can handle 75 amps.  Inside for the power I use two aluminium rails and connect the power at both ends as the power draw on 144 LEDs can be very high.

 

My main problem in the build was connecting the signal wire to the wrong end of the strips - oops.  I got so caught up in the mechanics and wiring that I forgot that the strips have an in and out signal.

 

Here are a few of the build pictures .....

 

 

While there is a way to go, tonight DOFLinx turned on some addressable LED patterns ... more work happening behind the scenes ....

[TerryRed]

It's so hard holding in the excitement!  and even harder to not make a video showing the amazing milestone of progress on this! I'll be patient....