Rat Trap Foot Switch

[dgame]

The Geometry Wars Dedicated Cab thread got me thinking about using my racing pedals for games that use two sticks and still need a button. While the racing pedals probably would work I felt a simple foot switch would be better and more convenient to use.

So I checked eBay and Amazon and found that a ‘Tattoo Foot Pedal” can be had for around $5.00 shipped. Looking at the designs it seemed pretty simple.

Then I searched and found this on YouTube:




Got the Rat Trap for $2 from the Home Depot.

Removed the bait pedal and locking bar. Bent down the locking bar tab.

I used two picture hanging hooks with nails to hold the spring tension.

One wire attaches to the bail and the other wire attaches to the bent-down tab.

The wires go up to the control panel and are wired in parallel to the desired button.

Press down on the bail to activate the switch as it contacts the bent tab.

It works like a telegraph key and the springs are strong enough to rest your foot on it without activating the switch.

A fancier pedal can be attached over the bail if desired.
The wires could be run under the trap like in the above video.
Have some non slip padding for the bottom.

Was thinking about adding a pedal and painting it to look more arcade-y but I kind of like the way it is. Will improve the wiring though.

[dgame]

I released the tension from one of the two springs as together they were too strong. A lot easier to press rapidly with one spring.

[dgame]

I removed the second spring all together. I also removed the picture hanging hook from that side. The wire is the orange pair from a Cat 5 cable. One strand connects to the tab where the tie is and the other is run on top of the trap to the bent tab. The action is very good.

[dgame]

Wanted a more arcade friendly design so I went with a Last Starfighter “Death Blossom” button look.

Added four rubber feet and went back to two picture hooks to level the bail.

Used a red permanent marker to make the stripes.