Muff's Modules & More

KitShunt · Posted: Sun Nov 14, 2010 12:16 pm Post subject: TM3030 mystery PCB holes...

Hi there all.

I'm new to this forum and Oakley hardware, and I'm currently halfway through building a TM3030.

During the build I've noticed there are many small, unused holes drilled in the board that look like they're for jumpers or something, but there's no mention of using jumper wires in the documentation.

Any clues as to what these are for would be appreciated!

Cheers, James.

magman · Posted: Sun Nov 14, 2010 12:22 pm Post subject:

James,

Welcome to the Forums.

I suspect these holes are what are known as via's. These link the tracks on opposite sides of the board to make a complete circuit using tracks on both sides of the board. It's a common way to allow the routing of tracks that have to cross other tracks.

You don't have to worry about them, they are already connected and doing their job.

Regards

Mike

KitShunt · Posted: Sun Nov 14, 2010 12:40 pm Post subject:

Ahh that makes a lot of sense.

I just wondered, as I built a Paia synth last year and there was about 60 jumper wires to install. Thought maybe I had overlooked an entire chapter of the build manual!

Hopefully that's as serious a problem as I encounter!

Cheers Mike.

James

Synthbuilder · Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2010 2:37 am Post subject:

It's worth filling those the via holes with a little solder too. This has the benefit of strengthening the metal contacts inside the hole and allowing greater current through the via's plating.

Do the soldering of the vias near the end of construction otherwise you may accidentally fill an unused component hole.

No Oakley board uses wire jumpers except those that need them to select certain optional features.

Tony

KitShunt · Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2010 3:31 am Post subject:

Righto Tony.
I will do that, thanks for the advice mate!

Have a great day everyone.

James