Author Topic: Metal DC Jack Question  (Read 560 times)

Lgmlgm76

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Metal DC Jack Question
« on: July 12, 2022, 01:19:18 PM »
Hello, I have a metal dc jack that shorts when I plug in the adapter but when the jack isn't attached to the metal enclosure, and is free floating, the pedal works fine. Also, there are 3 solder posts on this jack. What's the 3rd one for?

Besides insulating the jack from the enclosure with shrink-wrap or something, what's the best approach to fix this? I'll probably be using the plastic insulated jacks next time. Thanks in advance!

EBK

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Re: Metal DC Jack Question
« Reply #1 on: July 12, 2022, 01:50:47 PM »
You may be able to find insulating shoulder washers that will provide the isolation you need.

The third terminal is likely for a battery switch.  When you insert a plug into the jack, it pushes the switch open, disconnecting your battery (if you opt to use one).

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« Last Edit: July 12, 2022, 01:53:58 PM by EBK »
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madbean

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Re: Metal DC Jack Question
« Reply #2 on: July 12, 2022, 01:52:51 PM »
The best approach is to not use it at all, IMO. You might be able to insulate it from the enclosure but it's a failure point waiting to happen. The third solder tab is likely for a battery + connection.

EBK

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Re: Metal DC Jack Question
« Reply #3 on: July 12, 2022, 01:54:53 PM »
Yeah, I'm going to defer to Brian's suggestion.  For the cost of the shoulder washers with shipping, you could simply buy a plastic DC jack.
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Lgmlgm76

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Re: Metal DC Jack Question
« Reply #4 on: July 12, 2022, 04:29:10 PM »
Yeah, I'm going to defer to Brian's suggestion.  For the cost of the shoulder washers with shipping, you could simply buy a plastic DC jack.
The best approach is to not use it at all, IMO. You might be able to insulate it from the enclosure but it's a failure point waiting to happen. The third solder tab is likely for a battery + connection.

Makes perfect sense, I'll just grab a plastic one, thank you both for the swift replies. I just built my first Madbean pedal, Weener Wah, and it's superb! Side question: (Maybe should be a separate post) But how does The Laureate compare to the original, and is it based on the 1993 Natural OD?