Thread: MMI style rotary encoder install - details

Originally Posted by Tony G

@Danceheaven and Scouse Monkey

Just as touch screens have become a standard option for most front-ends, it looks like we need a "second standard" - the rotary encoder. I would imagine you are working on a PIC option with USB? which could be become the standard for rotary encoders. Front end coders take note! - what about adopting a standard input solution? you then choose touch screen or encoder.

SM - what is the part number of the ALPs encoder with the extra 8-way joystick option? - I have already thought of some great uses e.g. joystick "lookaround the map" in navigation mode. With luck it should be a direct swop-out with my current encoder.

@Quattro
Audi/VW armrests - not their greatest hour! - my wife's MKIV has the same problem, only with the bloody handbrake. Too bad.

I have toyed with an extension to the armrest with the encoder on the end, therefore being comfortably at the end of your arm. The problem is it further blocks the use of the handbrake.

Well out front end well support all sorts of input control methods

ideally USB but will take some further development as its currently RS232

Alough you can use a USB to RS232 convertor as there only cheap

and developing USB devices legally requires a costly Vendor ID license

But i tottaly agree with you on touchscreens, theres many issues with them

that could be avoided with various other control methods

Reflective screens

Break frequently

Scratch and get damaged from incorrect use

Finger print smears

and worst of all they seriously limit the brightness of the screens

plus controllin a touchscreen requires you too look at it, not always a good

idea while driving

So its definalty time for Other smart methods

yeah i have been wanting to go with a rotary controller for a while. Even more now than ever so i can just use one screen that pops up (i might do away with my twin screen design).

Glare is the main problem i have with touchscreens.

I dont have the Alps details to hand but there is 2 threads about it on here somewhere. I need to order a load from Mouser when i get £50 spare.

Working with incremental encoders using a PIC is very simple.

Basically compare the current 2 bit value from the previous reading.
If same, no movement.
Otherwise XOR the right bit of the current value from the left bit of the previous.
0 = counterclockwise ; 1 = clockwise.

Not 100% sure, but I think you only need a vendor id liscence if you plan on selling or distributing the device.

THe 8 way encorder is the RKJXM which is what is in the '05 Renault Laguna would love to encorporate that into my car pc/multimedia setup.

@schreibers

Thanks for the part number.

Alps current seem to supply these multi-function encoders only as PCB mount. Guess I will wait until some panel mount versions are available.(current installation too reliable to alter).

Still thinking about the advantages though..

Yeah I ran into that as well looks very promising though. I kinda like the whole package with the Renault setup with the surrounding buttons but the OEM price will kill you.

That is bad ***. I'm marking this thread for later perusal when I figure out where exactly to put a knob in my car. Want.

Hey Scouse, do you have a problem obtaining the Alps encoders from mouser.com? If so I can order them and ship em to you in the UK and u can paypal me the amnt + shipping....

no i just aint got no money to order a few for me and some for danceheaven and he doesnt have the cash to blow on the USB dev kit i am getting him just yet.

EDIT: but chears for asking.