I am looking for RF transmitters and receivers (not the x10). I need the basic units to build several new props. Controllers from RC toys are too large. I would like to find the same size used with the showtec or even the foot switch type used with tipper monkey and such. Anyone have any idea where I can buy just the electronics for my own projects? There must be a supplier for the small remotes as used in all of these and even the snake basket.

Christopher,

I punched "RF Remote" into Google and came up with a couple of good places for you to start:

http://www.rentron.com/PicBasic/RemoteControl.htm
http://www.rentron.com/RF-Remote.htm

Jeff

Hey I am trying one from Radio Shack. It is one used for key-less entry on cars.

Small remote and 12V battery.

This one has four chanels and is about $60.00.

I'll let you know how it is working.

Kent

You sound as though you have the necessary electronic skills, Christopher, to do as I do: take the guts out of R/C toys (cars, etc.) and just use the boards. The "Radio Controlled Whoopee Cushion" available in the joke section of any magic shop (or zillions of other shops) has a tiny transmitter the size of a matchbook and a receiver board equally small. Costs ten bucks or less.

Sounds like a great use of toys, play with it first till you get bored and then when you are ready to set it aside, tear it apart and make magic happen. In my case it would be magical if it did anything after I tore it apart.

Martin

It's the "Day After Christmas" gag: the little sweethearts have usually smashed everything by then and I just paw through the debris and help myself. Garage sales are another goldmine: "Does this thing work?" "No." "I'll give you a dime." "Ahhh... just take it."

Velman makes a solid rig with encoded keys.

Update on remote...
Radio Shack one did not do all that I needed it to so I picked up another one (don't remember the brand, I'm at home right now)

This one has four channels and many various program choices.

The problem with the RS brand was I would need "latching" relays (about $30 each) to run motors. This new controller has multi pulse output and constant output. It was $75.00 and worth it.

I will be making more effects and I can use the same receiver for them. (Just a different wiring harness)

I like the idea about using the small RF controls from cars and the electronic whoopee cushions. They would work great for small applications.

If you would like more info about what I am doing or would like something built PM me and we’ll talk.

Later
Kent

The cheap boards from toys give a triggered output up to the capacity of the receiver, usually three to six volts. That is more than enough to "gate" an SCR (silicon controlled rectifier) that will pass a much higher voltage, or to trip a microminiature relay. You can also cascade these to control any voltage or amperage you want.

Doing the toy thing is really hokey and prone to interference because the signal is not coded.
I use a 14-buck remote doorbell (everything battery powered)from home depot, that I hack to add a relay. The cool thing with this is the RF signal is coded and decoded and you can set different address codes to make you signal unique.

The effect I am using the remote for is working great. I am using at a county fair three times a day without fail! woo hoo!

Kent

Hi BloodyJack,

I'm interested in seeing these remote doorbells. But how do you change the code. U need an electroncs engineer or it the code changeing facility in the bell itself where we jsut open and change.

Thanks

Hi Kent, Can you give me some of your ideas how to make or get a simple remote to trigger three solenoids or servo arms. Id appreciate it if you could share your ideas. Thanks.

Plainman007,

The remotes I have worked with send a pulse to trigger a relay to transfer the main power. You can PM me with more about what you are trying to do and I will try to help you with inexpensive ways to accomplish what you are trying to do.

If all works as well as it has been I will have several remote items that will work with the same system. That will save money in the long run!

Kent

Good news
The code is changed by moving little connectors that short out pins its all explained in the document that comes with the doorbell.
Bad news
I am a electronics engineer and you do have to modifiy the electronics to operate a relay. If I ever get time I will put up a web site on how to do this