Jumper Connection Tips?

thegummy

When I have to make jumper connections between multiple lugs on a switch, for example, I've been using single core wire and twisting it through the lugs then soldering each lug.

It's quite fiddly and doesn't end up very neat though.

Any tips on how you make connections like that so in future I can do it more neatly and easily?

Roland

Solder the wire flat on the lug, and use shrink tube over the top. It helps to secure and strengthen the joint, and also provides insulation.

ICBM

thegummy said:

When I have to make jumper connections between multiple lugs on a switch, for example, I've been using single core wire and twisting it through the lugs then soldering each lug.

It's quite fiddly and doesn't end up very neat though.

Any tips on how you make connections like that so in future I can do it more neatly and easily?

Practice.

That's exactly how I do it. I wouldn't do it any other way.

thegummy

Thanks guys.

Just to clarify ICBM, say you had to connect 4 in a row, would you use one length of wire or 3 separate pieces?

ICBM

thegummy said:

Just to clarify ICBM, say you had to connect 4 in a row, would you use one length of wire or 3 separate pieces?

One, but I probably wouldn't feed it through the holes in the middle terminals - just the end ones. I would probably alternate from one side of the row to the other going past the middle two, if that makes sense - so it ends up as a wavy shape rather than straight. That will keep a firmer contact against the terminals. Obviously a moot point once the solder is on, but I don't like using solder to make a physical bond, it should be only to make a permanent electrical connection.

thegummy

Thanks again for the advice!  

tampaxboo

ICBM said:

I don't like using solder to make a physical bond, it should be only to make a permanent electrical connection.

if that isn't already one of RG Keen's 'Laws of stompbox building' it should be in the appendix.

so many pedals (jack sockets, pots, stomp switches) fail because when movement or vibration causes the solder to loosen-flake off, wires can just float away if not anchored physically.

Sporky

I've always done it with individual links - more repairable.