3 replies to this topic

[dan2600]

Hi All, Sorry I'm not here much, but I lurk more than I post.

 

So I'm going crazy with convid19, and I miss playing real tables.

 

There is a pinball bar, literally a 10 minute walk from me, but it's off limits. 

 

However, I've been thinking (I'd open source this), I have too much free time, maybe I could put together a simple web interface that works with an esp8622 and lets you control a machine virtually? Even if it doesn't work, at least it's a good project to waste some time on.

 

I have the way to make it pretty much mapped out already, my only real question is, my esp8622 is only 3.3v, and I know pinball machines use more than that. To make the digital switch, I'm going to need a FET, and I'm just wondering what the voltage/current is running through when you close the flipper switch, so I know what kinda FET to use. 

 

 

Thanks yall! stay sane! (more than me I hope) 

[zebulon]

These guys did it with remote solenoids........ https://www.youtube....h?v=R3I_Z7_2K7s

 

To do it your way you'll need a couple of ssr's (solid state relays) capable of 40v/15A ( or more to keep them cool without heatsinks).

[BoltBait]

As I understand it (and I'm no expert) a pinball machine uses 2 voltages when flipping the flipper, a high voltage for when moving the flipper and a lower voltage for holding it in the flipped position.  That way, your flippers last longer and don't burn out.

[Joe]

As I understand it (and I'm no expert) a pinball machine uses 2 voltages when flipping the flipper, a high voltage for when moving the flipper and a lower voltage for holding it in the flipped position.  That way, your flippers last longer and don't burn out.

newer games don't have high voltage at the flipper buttons