A "bright" idea: illuminated window switches ** Important order info added **
#32
Burning Brakes
Hey Guys,
I spent a good deal of the weekend looking at ways to implement a tactile reference to each switch. Not as easy as one might think.
I did find a way that is clean and does the job, but it still detracts a bit from the sleek look of the original.
I personally have no problem locating the buttons within that elevated frame and I think that most would find it easy as well.
But just to clarify, it will be an option for those who want it.
I also want to add to the list of features that Hans posted, that not only does the owner have a choice of finish and artwork, plus the number and placement of the functions, he also can change the color of the illumination by simply swapping LEDs
Whether or not one want the wiper or what orientation you want the pictographs for the passenger side, is all up to you.
I can also add that if for any reason, one decides that he/she needs a different finish: for example, you bought the black texture panel and now it does not match your new carbon fiber steering wheel, you can send the panel back, and for a small fee, I will be happy to replace the top finish for you.
Same situation if down the road you find yourself wanting another function (I know Jim as something cooking )
Since the switches themselves are so sturdy and trouble free, as is the light distribution system, all that is left are the cosmetic bits, and we can customize that any way you want.
The panel of 8 switches, with a basic choice of black texture, carbon fiber and brushed aluminum, customized to your specifications, will come in at around $164.00
Considering that a single factory window switch is $60.00, I think that's not too bad. Even when adding the cost of the DEI module, the total cost is still below the 4 factory switch cost and the new panel offers so much more in terms of reliability, functions and look.
We will be offering a discount for pre-orders, with payment required about 3 to 4 weeks prior to the panels being ready to ship. Some of these components require a large first order and an important setup fee.
So those of you who are seriously interested, please either post here or email me directly. We do need to gauge if this is something people really want.
Thanks again
Paul
I spent a good deal of the weekend looking at ways to implement a tactile reference to each switch. Not as easy as one might think.
I did find a way that is clean and does the job, but it still detracts a bit from the sleek look of the original.
I personally have no problem locating the buttons within that elevated frame and I think that most would find it easy as well.
But just to clarify, it will be an option for those who want it.
I also want to add to the list of features that Hans posted, that not only does the owner have a choice of finish and artwork, plus the number and placement of the functions, he also can change the color of the illumination by simply swapping LEDs
Whether or not one want the wiper or what orientation you want the pictographs for the passenger side, is all up to you.
I can also add that if for any reason, one decides that he/she needs a different finish: for example, you bought the black texture panel and now it does not match your new carbon fiber steering wheel, you can send the panel back, and for a small fee, I will be happy to replace the top finish for you.
Same situation if down the road you find yourself wanting another function (I know Jim as something cooking )
Since the switches themselves are so sturdy and trouble free, as is the light distribution system, all that is left are the cosmetic bits, and we can customize that any way you want.
The panel of 8 switches, with a basic choice of black texture, carbon fiber and brushed aluminum, customized to your specifications, will come in at around $164.00
Considering that a single factory window switch is $60.00, I think that's not too bad. Even when adding the cost of the DEI module, the total cost is still below the 4 factory switch cost and the new panel offers so much more in terms of reliability, functions and look.
We will be offering a discount for pre-orders, with payment required about 3 to 4 weeks prior to the panels being ready to ship. Some of these components require a large first order and an important setup fee.
So those of you who are seriously interested, please either post here or email me directly. We do need to gauge if this is something people really want.
Thanks again
Paul
When will the cost of the entire carputer section be available? Want that too.
Charles
#34
Fleet of Foot
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
Hi Paul,
Very interested in your new setup for the window/sunroof/rear wiper switches. Black with white lighting is my choice and I have no interest in having the rear hatch switch integrated into it.
Thanks!
Very interested in your new setup for the window/sunroof/rear wiper switches. Black with white lighting is my choice and I have no interest in having the rear hatch switch integrated into it.
Thanks!
#35
Three Wheelin'
I'm in for one too PLEASE Paul and Hans. Black with blue LED's. I have an 88 so will I need some additional harnesses? Also any pictures of the prototype in the console??
EDIT: I was just bitching to myself today on the way to work that my sunroof button needs more and more pressure (I know...clean/adjust contacts dummy) but there just has to be a better way. It's (another) 40 y birthday present to myself...woohoo!
Thanks for this great work!
EDIT: I was just bitching to myself today on the way to work that my sunroof button needs more and more pressure (I know...clean/adjust contacts dummy) but there just has to be a better way. It's (another) 40 y birthday present to myself...woohoo!
Thanks for this great work!
#36
Drifting
Very cool new product!
I like the lighting idea a lot. I’ve been wanting to put some sort of BMW like red ‘mood’ lighting emanating down from the rear view mirror.
Curious, how does the express down and express up know how 'far' it's gone… is it programmed by time? Also, can it recognize a spike in up load that might me ones finger in the way?
I like the lighting idea a lot. I’ve been wanting to put some sort of BMW like red ‘mood’ lighting emanating down from the rear view mirror.
Curious, how does the express down and express up know how 'far' it's gone… is it programmed by time? Also, can it recognize a spike in up load that might me ones finger in the way?
#37
Under the Lift
Lifetime Rennlist
Member
Lifetime Rennlist
Member
#38
Rennlist Member
I will definitely have a very polished install document by the time we get the components in to start building, and plan to try and fabricate a very easy to use harness for use with the DEI modules. Install will require some crimping or soldering unless you want to send me the harnesses that come with your DEI modules, and I can terminate them for you. I think that most will choose just to do this themselves though, as it is very simple job and you would loose a lot of time in the mail sending to and from. I will include a labeled harness with the panel and the mating connectors to crimp onto the DEI harnesses or you can build a simple relay if you would like, schematics will be included for this option as well.
This way we can still offer the switch panel at a very reasonable price for people to do some creative things with it.
I am attaching the manuals here for the 529t and the 530t manuals here so people can start taking a look at the way they can be customized. There were two revisions of the 530t manual, I am attaching both.
I have a lot going on this week, but will post installation notes sometime next week.
Thanks
Hans
- The files are too big to attach directly, I will host them somewhere, and then post a link -
This way we can still offer the switch panel at a very reasonable price for people to do some creative things with it.
I am attaching the manuals here for the 529t and the 530t manuals here so people can start taking a look at the way they can be customized. There were two revisions of the 530t manual, I am attaching both.
I have a lot going on this week, but will post installation notes sometime next week.
Thanks
Hans
- The files are too big to attach directly, I will host them somewhere, and then post a link -
#39
Three Wheelin'
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset, UK.
Posts: 1,741
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Hi Hans
Sorry for being a bit dim , but having read this whole thread, I still have no idea what a "dei module" is ??
Maybe its something I don`t have on my UK 86 S2 (16 Valve) ?
Or whether this unit will fit ALL 928s as I got the impression from the thread (maybe wrongly) that its only for 1990 onwards ?
Will the unit be available for RHD cars (i.e reversed) ?
Extremely interested though
All the best Brett
Sorry for being a bit dim , but having read this whole thread, I still have no idea what a "dei module" is ??
Maybe its something I don`t have on my UK 86 S2 (16 Valve) ?
Or whether this unit will fit ALL 928s as I got the impression from the thread (maybe wrongly) that its only for 1990 onwards ?
Will the unit be available for RHD cars (i.e reversed) ?
Extremely interested though
All the best Brett
#40
Rennlist Member
Directed Electronics
DEI 529T
Other places to buy...
DEI 530T
Other places to buy...
I tried to get thru the manuals.... too technical and boring. If anyone feels so inclined, please boil the manuals down into the key characteristics.
DEI 529T
Other places to buy...
DEI 530T
Other places to buy...
I tried to get thru the manuals.... too technical and boring. If anyone feels so inclined, please boil the manuals down into the key characteristics.
#41
Rennlist Member
Hans, Paul,
Excellent work! Nice execution!
I'm in the tactile camp and "what the heck is the DEI" camp so I won't be jumping on it right away.
Excellent work! Nice execution!
I'm in the tactile camp and "what the heck is the DEI" camp so I won't be jumping on it right away.
#42
Former Vendor
Thread Starter
The DEI modules simply replace the limited factory window controllers. The hookup will be simplified by the supplied custom harness and guide.
It brings window control in line with the current production cars.
One is for both windows, the other is for the sunroof.
Current price is around $40.00, Hans will be able to quote a more accurate price for those.
And yes, both the switch panel and those controllers will work with all years of 928 and both right and left hand drive cars.
Paul
#43
Three Wheelin'
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset, UK.
Posts: 1,741
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The tactile side is resolved. This is an option that will carry a minimal surcharge because I have to add an extra layer and some more setup and laser time. But it's there for those who need/want it.
The DEI modules simply replace the limited factory window controllers. The hookup will be simplified by the supplied custom harness and guide.
It brings window control in line with the current production cars.
One is for both windows, the other is for the sunroof.
Current price is around $40.00, Hans will be able to quote a more accurate price for those.
And yes, both the switch panel and those controllers will work with all years of 928 and both right and left hand drive cars.
Paul
The DEI modules simply replace the limited factory window controllers. The hookup will be simplified by the supplied custom harness and guide.
It brings window control in line with the current production cars.
One is for both windows, the other is for the sunroof.
Current price is around $40.00, Hans will be able to quote a more accurate price for those.
And yes, both the switch panel and those controllers will work with all years of 928 and both right and left hand drive cars.
Paul
Ah thanks for the explanation of DEIs...lol
WHERE are the factory controllers for windows and sunroof as on mine they are not underneath where the switches are.... ?
With your kit what is the rough installation time ? does it mean stripping off the door panels etc ?
All the best Brett
#45
Rennlist Member
Yes, I was just thinking that I need to replace the window and sunroof switches in the GTS. Tan finish please with the rear wiper.
Hans, looking forward to seeing you at Third Coast.
Hans, looking forward to seeing you at Third Coast.