Maker and YouTuber William Sun Petrus has ingeniously converted an old 1920’s typewriter into a functional MIDI controller. Check out the tutorial below to learn how you can transform a Remington portable typewriter into a MIDI controller using a little Arduino programming and hardware with great results.
Transforming Vintage Technology
“William Sun Petrus has done the impossible… well, the improbable and turned his 1920’s Remington Compact Typewriter into a MIDI controller! Armed with a typewriter, an Arduino Nano and some standalone programs – he’s made it possible use the hammer contacts with the “live plate”, which will send a signal to the Arduino which will, in turn, send MIDI. He’s created a tutorial and run down of the setup to show its inner workings as well as an extended cut of the original video. The Arduino code is also hosted on his GitHub page, if you’d like to finally put to use the 1920s Remington compact typewriter you have lying around.”
This project is a fascinating blend of old and new technologies. By repurposing a nearly century-old typewriter, Petrus has breathed new life into a piece of history, transforming it into a modern musical instrument. The process involves using the mechanical action of the typewriter’s keys to trigger MIDI signals, which can then be used to control digital music software or hardware synthesizers.
How It Works
The core of this transformation lies in the Arduino Nano, a small yet powerful microcontroller. The typewriter’s hammer contacts are connected to the Arduino, which detects when a key is pressed. This action sends a signal to the Arduino, which then translates it into a MIDI message. The MIDI message can be interpreted by any MIDI-compatible device, allowing the typewriter to function as a unique and tactile MIDI controller.
To achieve this, Petrus used a combination of custom Arduino code and standalone programs. The Arduino code, which is available on his GitHub page, is designed to read the inputs from the typewriter and convert them into MIDI signals. This code is crucial for ensuring that each key press is accurately detected and translated into the correct MIDI note or command.
The project also involves some hardware modifications to the typewriter itself. Petrus had to carefully install sensors and wiring to connect the typewriter’s mechanical components to the Arduino. This required a delicate balance of preserving the typewriter’s original functionality while integrating the new electronic components.
Applications and Implications
This innovative project opens up a world of possibilities for musicians and makers alike. By turning a typewriter into a MIDI controller, Petrus has demonstrated that almost any object with mechanical action can be repurposed for digital music creation. This concept can be extended to other vintage or everyday objects, inspiring new and creative ways to interact with music technology.
Moreover, this project highlights the potential for combining historical artifacts with modern technology. It serves as a reminder that old devices, often considered obsolete, can be given new purposes and continue to be valuable in the digital age. This approach not only preserves the physical integrity of these objects but also adds a layer of functionality that was unimaginable when they were first created.
For those interested in undertaking a similar project, Petrus’s tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to the process. From the initial setup to the final touches, he walks through each step in detail, making it accessible even for those with limited experience in electronics or programming.
Source: SonicState : Adafruit
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