Rail Requirements
The 1U Tiles have been built to fit between Vector rails. Other brands may not have as much space between the rails, so please check the PCB dimensions below before building a case for Tiles.
Power
Tiles are powered with a 3-pin keyed Futaba-style connector, which provides the module with +/-12V and GND. The 3-pin power cable is soldered directly to the PCB. The footprint has a pitch of 0.125″ and drill size of 0.060″.
- GND – black wire
- +12V – red wire
- -12V – white wire
Depth
The 1U Tile format is designed to have a small depth, so they are “skiff friendly”. As of this publishing, the Tile depths range from 15mm to 36mm, with most in the 15-20mm range.
Panel Specifications (Typical)
- width: 30.48 mm (1.200″)
- height: 43.18 mm (1.700″)
- mounting drills: 3.175 mm (0.125″) diameter
- mounting (x mm, y mm): (4.95, 3.00), (40.18, 3.00), (4.95, 25.27), (40.18, 25.27)
- mounting (x”, y”): (0.195, 0.118), (1.582, 0.118), (0.195, 0.995), (1.582, 0.995)
- Tile panel specs
PCB Specifications (Typical)
- width: 27.94 mm (1.100″)
- height: 28.70 mm (1.130″)
I need a part/series number for the “futaba style” connectors you reference. We are developing 1U modules and need this info. Thanks!
The connector is typically called a Futaba “J” connector. They are available at most hobby shops worldwide.
http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXTSH2&P=FR
http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/1926
We have wired and tinned pigtails available here:
http://erthenvar.com/store/tilediy/tiletails
what is the pinout for the 3 pin pig tails? i.e. which color is +12, etc?
Thanks!
Have you thought about trying to find a way to make a power distribution board for the 1U modules instead of the octopus you have now? I’ve looked and cannot find PCB versions of the Futaba connectors. I’d be willing to work with you on this if you’re interested.
I have added the colors to the specs above.
PulpLogic has developed a distribution board using Tile Splitters connected to header pins on the PCB, all held down with a sort of bracket. I will see about getting pictures up.
Cool!
What are the depths of your 1U tiles? I’m making a case and need to make it deep enough to clear the tiles. Thanks!
Please see the section labeled Depth
Any word on the distribution board? I am considering developing 1U tiles but would really prefer a disti board set up.