Analogue voltmeter kit
Description and specs
Introducing the Clacktronics Analogue Voltmeter, the perfect addition to your modular setup for those seeking a touch of vintage charm and DC voltage signal monitoring. This partially assembled kit provides you with the necessary driving circuitry and analogue meter, allowing you to seamlessly integrate a classic voltage needle meter into your rack.
The Analogue Meter not only adds a visually striking element to your modular system but also offers practical functionality. With its ability to measure slow signals ranging from +10V to -10V, you can now visualize the behavior of your slow-evolving CV signals in real-time. Whether you're working with complex modulation sources or fine-tuning your patches, the Analogue Meter provides a clear and intuitive way to monitor your signal levels.
As a bonus, the Clacktronics Analogue Meter features three buffered mult outputs, expanding your patching possibilities and ensuring that your signals remain clean and robust throughout your system. These mult outputs allow you to distribute your CV signals to multiple destinations without compromising signal integrity.
The Analogue Meter kit comes partially assembled, striking the perfect balance between convenience and the satisfaction of being involved in the building process. With clear instructions and pre-soldered components, you'll be able to complete the assembly with ease and have your meter up and running in less than an hour.
- Width: 14HP
- Height: 3U
- Depth: 50mm
- Current draw +12V:2mA
- Current draw -12V:2mA
Bill of Materials
| Part | Value | Designators | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
On board Connectors | ||||
| Power socket | IDC 2.54mm 10way | J4 | Normal Eurorack power | |
| Thonkiconn Jack | PJ398SM | J1, J3, J5, J6 | ||
| Screw Terminal | 5.08 | Voltmeter | Marked voltmeter on panel | |
Surface mount components (already soldered if you have kit) | ||||
| 100n MLCC | 5mm package | J4 | X7R, Y5V or similar | |
| Schottky Diode | SMA package | D1, D2 | Any SMA package Schottky diode will do | |
| Resistor | 100Ω | R1, R2, R3 | 0805 Package | |
| LM324 | SO-14 Package | U1 | LM324 was used because it was cheap! | |
Other bits | ||||
| +-10V Panel meter | 85C1 | On Panel | Other voltages are available | |
| 2 wires | Any type | On panel | Needs solder tags | |
| Solder Tags | hole for M3 bolt | On Wire | These solder onto the wire | |
| Brass standoff M3 | 8mm body length | On panel | Threaded hole on one end, bolt on the other | |
| 2 extra M3 nuts | M3 standard | On panel | Two extra nuts are needed to raise the standoffs (see build instructions) | |
Assembly Video
Coming soonAssembly
The assembly instructions are shown for the complete kit that is for sale. If you source your own components the parts may look different. Sometimes it is hard to convey in text and image the exact details of assembly so some information may be a bit confusing especially if you are starting out. A video is also available that may be more helpful to follow along.
Components in bag
You should have the following small components in an anti-static bag, some part in the baggie of screws are not used because they come with the meter as a product.
The PCB
The PCB is pre-assembled with surface mount components, it made it cheaper to produce. All you need to do is solder the IDC connector and screw connector on the top and the jacks on the bottom. Take care not to solder the jacks on the top side!
Top connectors
Solder on the connectors, they should be on the side with the crab symbol. Take care to notice the orientation of the IDC conenctor (the 10 pin one), there is an arrow on the connector that matches the arrow on the board. Plus there is a notch in the conenctor that matches the notch marking on the board. Take care to make sure the screw terminal is soldered so the holes face outwards.
The Jacks
Solder the Jacks on the underside, its the side without the crab symbol on it. That is it! the main board is assembled.
Panel and panel meter assembly
Fit the meter into the panel, it should go in easy. Use two M3 nuts to screw it into the panel as pictured.
All the mounting parts
Next screw the PCB spacers ontop of the M3 nuts we just placed, this ensures the correct height for the PCB mounting. Then also put on the solder tags. I like to do "washer > solder tag > washer > nut" but there are also anti-slip washers in the package too if you want to use them.
Mount main PCB
The PCB should sit ontop of the meter now as pictured. Use the jack nuts to secure it in place and then a further two M3 nuts to hold it into the meter. Now you are done, the meter is complete!
Downloads and Resources
- ibom (right click to save)
- Schematic (right click to save)
- Github page
- Modulargrid page
Troubleshooting
When I put in a positive voltage the meter moves to the left and vice versa.
You need to swap around the wires on the meter, either do this at the terminal or on the back of the meter itelf.
I soldered a connector on the wrong side or the wrong way around
Oh dear! we have all done this, use a good quality solder pump like an Engineer SS-02 to remove as much of the bulk solder. Then use wick to remove as much trace solder as you can (Gootwick is a good brand), pay attention to both sides. Then use a small screw driver to "click" the leads away from the edge of the hole, the part should ease out. Finally use more wick to clean up the hole and resolder.