The MIDI-Retrofit-8 started out as a re-release of the MIDI2SDS from Paul Maddox and was called MIDI2SDS (X)
That version, like it's original predecessor, had a limited TRIGGER output range of
around 2V to around 4V. This limitation was imposed on the module as a consequence
of some limitations of the MAX529 chip.

Original schematics and circuit details are here

MIDI2SDS II SchematicMIDI2SDS II FirmwareMIDI2SDS II Gerber Files

NB: These above items cannot be used with the current ELBY Designs offerings

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MIDI-Retrofit-8

The current revision of the MIDI-Retrofit-8 utilises the MAX528 8-bit DAC which allows for a wider range of output voltages.
MIDI-Retrofit-8 requires a single-rail supply ranging from 12V to 15V providing for a maximum TRIGGER output voltage of between ~8V (12V supply) and ~10V (15V supply).

MIDI-Retrofit-8 supports 2 'trigger modes':-

1. PULSE Mode where the TRIGGER output is a pulse generated on receipt of a valid NOTE ON message
   and having a pulsewidth defined by the onboard trimpot (from around 5mS to 120mS),
2. GATE Mode where the TRIGGER output is controlled by the receipt of valid NOTE ON/NOTE OFF messages.

• POSTIVE - the TRIGGER output swings from the low voltage (normally 0V) to the high voltage (usually 5V)
• NEGATIVE - the TRIGGER output swings from the high voltage to the low voltage

INSTALLATION OPTIONS

The minimal installation option is to mount the MIDI-Retrofit-8 inside the unit to be controlled, wiring the TRIGGER outputs directly to the relevant points on the instrument and connecting to a suitable power supply inside the unit. The MIDI-IN socket being the only item that requires to be mounted on the unit for easy access. This option is suited for installations where the MIDI Note assignments will be set once (or very infrequently).

The standard installation optionally brings the LEARN switch out to a user accessible point as well as installing LEDs to indicate the status of each of the TRIGGER outputs. During normal use, the LEDs indicate the status of each TRIGGER output. While in LEARN mode they indicate which channel is being programmed. This is useful if you wish to change the MIDI Note assignments often and/or desire a visual indication of the operation of the MIDI-Retrofit-8.

If LED status is required for programming but is not needed for normal operation (or you don't want to mount the LEDs on your unit) the MIDI-Retrofit-8 pcb allows for the LEDs to be mounted on the pcb directly. These, in conjunction with the onboard LEARN switch, allow the user to observe the programming status during the LEARN mode.

Installing in to a Roland CR-8000

The MIDI Retrofit-8 being used in a Simmons SDSV courtesy of The SImmons Guy

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MIDI2SDS(X) (MIDI-Retrofit-8-1U)

The MIDI-Retrofit-8-1U houses the MIDI-Retrofit-8 module in a lightweight ABS 19" 1U rack
ready for direct rack mounting, or it can just as easily be used free-standing.

The MIDI-Retrofit-8-1U is powered by a 15VDC 500mA power supply (2.1mm DC connector, tip = positive)

Build Guide

User Guide

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Visit this link for examples of the former MIDI2SDS being used to MIDIfy a drum machine

http://www.cykong.com/Synths/Tama TS-305/TamaTS305-MIDI.htm

To implement these retrofits you will need:-

1 x MIDI-Retrofit-8 PCB
1 x MIDI-Retrofit-8 Component Kit.

These 2 items will provide you with the PCB and all components needed to dress the PCB.
This also includes the MIDI-IN socket and a LEARN switch.
Although not required during normal operation it is recommended that you install
Trigger Output LED's to provide, as a minimum, a visual status during the LEARN mode but also the TRIGGER status of the channels during normal operation.