Hi everyone, I'm prototyping some inputs for my flight simulator & they typically use a mixture of different kinds of buttons and switches and knobs... What I am doing is building something like a button box, but want to be able to freely wire, re-wire, re-route, etc. before I solder. I bought a pack of jumper wires, but found that on some things (specifically, rotary encoders and a few buttons) that the pins are too short; the jumper wires can't really grip them properly, and they're too short to hold them securely to a breadboard. Any suggestions?

Solder header pins (male or female) to the "too-short" leds. Here is an example, but you probably should get just a couple. You can use diagonal cutters to make smaller headers (or snap them with your fingers). Amazon.com: HiLetgo 20pcs 40P 2.54mm Pitch Single Row Pin Header Strip 40Pin... Buy HiLetgo 20pcs 40P 2.54mm Pitch Single Row Pin Header Strip 40Pin 2.54mm Pitch: DIP Switches - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

FYI, Dupont wire connectors. 3ee2dd7711bd7c7ae07838b46b296b43c6a070c7.pdf 1266.73 KB [image] This is similar: [image] Share tips you have come across General Electronics Oscilloscope Connections on a Solderless Breadboard Whenever you try to look at a signal on a solderless breadboard, the slightest probe movement inevitably pulls out the wire or component to which it is attached. The following images show how to make a sturdy termination module where the scope probe can be attached. The scope GND clip is attached to a similar module. The module is made from a 2X5 pin, male, wire wrap header. The 10 pins in this module ensure the probe will not dislodge a … [image] Wire splicing idea: [image] Share tips you have come across General Electronics PCB Eyelets Used as Wire Ferrules PCB eyelets crimped on stranded wires keeps those strands under control. This process makes wire connections easier and less likely to result in fabrication problems. The Following images show the technique: [A] [B] [C] [D] [E] [F] [G] [H] [I] [J] EDIT When stripping insulation from wires, highly recommend using an insulation displacement type wire stripper: [image] [image] [image]

Thanks - looks like the PDF is a good solution for now, plus I can make the wires any length. Do you know what the connector strip is called? Did a search but didn't find it.

[image] oandroido: Do you know what the connector strip is called? [image] Amazon.com: Cermant 200 Pairs 2.54mm 18-24awg Male and Female Pins Connector Kit... Buy Cermant 200 Pairs 2.54mm 18-24awg Male and Female Pins Connector Kit Dupont Jumper Wire Cable Pin Crimp Terminal Connector for Connector Housing Jumper Wire Cable Connectors: Connectors & Adapters - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible... $8.49 [image] If you have time for delivery, Ebay has better prices. [image] Amazon.com: Connector Kit - 1004pcs Crimp Connector Kit with 2.54 mm Crimp Pin... Buy Connector Kit - 1004pcs Crimp Connector Kit with 2.54 mm Crimp Pin Connector Housings, Single Row Male Headers, Male/Female Crimp Pins and Ribbon Cable from Plusivo: Connectors & Adapters - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible... [image]

I suggest the kit with the crimper. When I was looking at them it was actually cheaper to get them both than to just buy the crimper.

Thanks Joe - any particular one you'd recommend?

See this post. Click on the link below. [image] New user, and Platform mounting base General Guidance My favourite is: Platinum Tools 16801C Open Barrel Contact Crimp Tool Clamshell [image] [1] [2] These are what I use with percentage of times I use them: [3] First crimp the conductor [4] Finally crimp the insulation [5] Might have to tune remove some insulation with flush nippy cutters and tune with needle nose. The Platinum Tools 16801C Open Barrel Contact Crimp Tool Clamshell IMO is the best. [image]

I have only used 1 so don’t have much to base an opinion on. Only thing I know for sure is they are easier than trying to use needle nose pliers. I got a ratcheting one. It’s ok.

Jumpers for short component pins?

Other Hardware Product Design

LarryD January 12, 2023, 6:37pm 3

FYI, Dupont wire connectors.

This is similar:

Wire splicing idea:

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Jumpers for short component pins?

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