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Phase VII
So we needed a Computer capable of hosting Linux Fedora IV and DRIL software extensions. A Candidate machine was chosen from the Stock of KA5CDJ and testing begun.
Of course we needed an Armadillo DRIL Card to interface with the computer. KA5CDJ obtained an Armadillo version 3.2 prototype board (minus silk screen) from Joe, K5FOG in Austin. Pat, N5BBD obtained the non standard components (Sockets, Connectors, regulator, IC's Transformers etc.) and board stuffing was begun at the Jacks Peak meeting. Thanks to the assistance of Doug, KE5NCM who's eyes work better than mine (without a magnifying glass) significant progress was made at the meeting.
Once we got home to El Paso; Martin, WB5LJO located a few of the remaining capacitors required to complete construction of the Board and KA5CDJ completed construction.
Moving forward we need to mount the DRIL card somewhere. The rear of the computer was chosen because of the desire to keep all the interfacing cables short and only requiring a longer cable harness from the DRIL card and the Dillo II Controller. Due to the desire to be able to access the audio input/output level controls as well as monitor the LED's on the card the rear of the computer was chosen. This would require a way to mount the board to the computer chassis. We decided on standoffs ... so the chassis was carefully measured drilled and tapped utilizing 4 - 40 hardware.
The only thing we required from inside the Computer was power for the DRIL board. Not wanting to disrupt cooling air flow of the original computer case we opted to utilize two existing holes in the case and use connectors so that:
1.) The DRIL board can be removed from the back of the Computer for possible rework, I. E. Audio Frequency Compensation (which requires mounting resistors and/or capacitors) without having to cut wires.
2.) Component replacement or modification (not likely, but one never knows).
Here are the final pictures of the install. We hope to have this link up and running next week, December 10th, 2007.
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