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--- usb_gm5_module [2009/03/27 01:19]
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+++ usb_gm5_module [2009/03/27 01:41]
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 ===== Overview =====
-The GM5 is a USB MIDI interface IC from Ploytec.  It provides up to 5 independent MIDI inputs and 5 independent MIDI outputs.  It is only available in a surface mount package, and only in large (250+) quantities.  TK organizes regular bulk orders for this IC.
+The GM5 is a bus-powered USB MIDI interface IC from Ploytec.  It provides up to 5 independent MIDI inputs and 5 independent MIDI outputs.  It is only available as a surface mount IC, and only in large (250+) quantities.  TK organizes regular bulk orders for this IC.
-The MBHP "USB GM5 Module" is a simple PCB which holds the GM5 IC, and all required components for one MIDI input and output.  It does not require any other MBHP modules to provide basic USB<>MIDI I/O functionality.  A single MIDI input and MIDI output jack may be mounted to the board, or connected via SIL headers.  An additional 4 inputs and outputs may be connected to the module via a single header, in which case each physical i/o would require its own support parts (optocouplers, resistors, diodes etc).  "Digital I/O" pins are also available for direct interface to a Core module, with no need for optocouplers.
+The MBHP "USB GM5 Module" is a simple PCB which holds the GM5 IC, a USB "type B" jack, and all required components for one MIDI input and one MIDI output.  It does not require any other MBHP modules to provide basic 1x1 USB<>MIDI I/O functionality.
+While there is debate among the MIDIbox community about the difficulty/practicality of SMT (surface mount technology) in DIY projects, it is generally agreed that you should not attempt to build this or any other project that requires you to solder surface-mount devices (SMDs) if you have never soldered before.
+==== Options ====
+A single MIDI input and MIDI output jack may be mounted to the board, or connected via SIL headers.  The module includes an additional "Digital I/O" header, to which up to 4 additional inputs and outputs may be connected, in which case each physical i/o would require its own support parts (optocouplers, resistors, diodes etc).  These "Digital I/O" pins could also be connected directly to Core module(s), with no need for optocouplers.
+Multiple USB GM5 modules (and/or GM5x5x5 modules) may be connected to a single computer.  Each module will appear in your operating system with identical names unless you add an optional EPROM, programmed with the name you would like the module to appear as in your OS.  This EPROM is not absolutely required in order to use multiple GM5s, but the option has been provided in case your needs would be better served with unique interface names.
+VDC is also available from the USB GM5 module, at up to 500 mA. This is enough to power additional MBHP modules.
 ==== Alternatives ====

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