Caiman Mods

[Frizzup]

Is it possible to add a 2nd optical input to my existing Caiman ?

I do not need the USB input so can I add the 2nd optical input receiver at the point on the PCB/Case ?

If yes what part do I need to order ?

Cheers
Frizzup

[MartinT]

If you can't, there are plenty of optical<->co-ax converter modules available.

[StanleyB]

Is it possible to add a 2nd optical input to my existing Caiman ?

You can on the PCB, but it turns out that the Caiman USB socket entry hole was at some stage changed from its original location by a few millimeters. That's why I have a slightly different case for the Caiman+, which has the two TOSLINK sockets.
If you are handy with a file you can resize the USB hole so that it accepts an extra TOSLINk socket.

[StanleyB]

I have been experimenting with some PIC microcontroller software code to see if I could solve a frequently asked for feature. Namely a method that can detect which input on my DAC is active, and get the DAC to engage the corresponding input signal.

I managed to get the no frills version of the code working. At the moment the PIC resides in the PIC programmer whilst I figure out how to connect the switches and LEDs in the DAC to the PIC so that I don't have to rely on the switches and LEDs from the PIC programmer.

[MartinT]

Clever, Stan, but I've always preferred simple and have no problem with setting the input manually. A PIC controller is going to create a lot more internal noise, I'm guessing?

Now balanced outputs, that would be another thing

[Frizzup]

You can on the PCB, but it turns out that the Caiman USB socket entry hole was at some stage changed from its original location by a few millimeters. That's why I have a slightly different case for the Caiman+, which has the two TOSLINK sockets.
If you are handy with a file you can resize the USB hole so that it accepts an extra TOSLINk socket.

Gidday Stanley,

That being the case what is the part I need to order that gives me the 2nd optical reciever. I'm handy with a file and also the soldering iron so the modification is no problem just need to know the manafacturer/part no please

Cheers
Frizzup

[StanleyB]

That being the case what is the part I need to order that gives me the 2nd optical reciever. I'm handy with a file and also the soldering iron so the modification is no problem just need to know the manafacturer/part no please

The one I use is a production line part. It is not sold by the manufacturer for general use. If you need one I'll see how much it will cost me to post it to AU. Best PM me your address.

[StanleyB]

Clever, Stan, but I've always preferred simple and have no problem with setting the input manually. A PIC controller is going to create a lot more internal noise, I'm guessing?

Now balanced outputs, that would be another thing

Why would a PIC be noisy?

I'll leave a mod for balanced output to the wider community. I have already worked out that it would add at least £50 to the retail price (bigger case etc.), which would be a heavy price to pay for the 99% of DAC buyers who don't need it.

[MartinT]

Why would a PIC be noisy?

Another clock running.

[StanleyB]

It doesn't have an external clock .