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Adapting Aviation Headset to work with a PC

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jhausch

Joined: 14 Jan 2008
Posts: 35

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2011 6:50 am Post subject: Adapting Aviation Headset to work with a PC

Hello Group,



I would like the noise attenuation and noise cancelling properties of an aviation headset to use with Skype on my PC.  



I contacted Quiet Technologies because I like the in-ear style.  They referred me to RCM Headsets and the Starkey line:  http://www.rcmheadsets.com/products.php?m=1



I've sent an email and am awaiting a response.



I am familiar with the "roll your own" headsets threads here and on VAF, but that is generally "going the other way" (PC versions to use in aircraft)



I searched and only found this thread (which, again, is the opposite of what I need) http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?t=54658&highlight=headset+computer



I thought I'd throw this thread out there for additional ideas.



I'll let you know what I learn from RCM, and, as a next step, I suppose we'll find out how well the Skype "squelch" works when paired with a good mic (I see that as the most likely next hurdle/issue)



Thanks.

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sprocket(at)vx-aviation.c
Guest

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2011 1:20 pm Post subject: Adapting Aviation Headset to work with a PC

Go to here: http://www.flightsim.com/main/howto/adapter.htm



Here are the recommended modifications:  Use a 1K resistor rather than the 

470, and eliminate the electrolytic capacitor on the far right (not 

necessary)

Should work fine.



Vern Little

Vx Aviation



--

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jhausch

Joined: 14 Jan 2008
Posts: 35

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2011 2:23 pm Post subject: Re: Adapting Aviation Headset to work with a PC

Very interesting.  Thanks!



Sorry, just for my own extra-cautious clarification - You mention that I would eliminate the cap. on the far right.  So I only need the one cap. (oriented as shown), or do I eliminate both?



Also, since I might be using this in a very noisy environment, a PTT might be a great idea.  



I Googled and found this note about aftermarket PTT buttons on the PS engineering website:

 	  Quote: 	
		  

How do I modify a portable Push to Talk switch to work in series with my headset?



When using a standard portable PTT switch, when installed in series with the headset microphone line, there will be no audio present through the intercom until the PTT is pressed. This is because there are two switches inside the PTT switch, One shorts the TIP and the Sleeve which is what keys the radio. The other switch closes to allow the mic audio from the microphone to the ring of the PTT's mic plug, which will allow the audio to pass to the intercom..



To modify the PTT so that the mic audio is always present, the PTT must be taken apart and the switch that makes and breaks the microphone path will be closed permanently.



Due the large variety of PTT, it is not possible for PS Engineering to provide details on how to accomplish this modification.  



PS Engineering does sell already modified PTT switches, call 865-988-9800 to order.

	




The wording "One shorts the TIP and the Sleeve which is what keys the radio" is a little confusing.  Shorts them to each other, Shorts both to V-, what?  



So a little more searching and I think what is being said is this:  The PTT has two switches.  The "sleeve" of the jack is at V-, the tip would be wired to mic V-.  When the PTT is pressed mic V- is tied to battery V- via the sleeve.  Simultaneously mic V+ is tied to the ring.  In other words, when the switch is open they are opening V- and V+ to the mic.  I guess they use this DPST action to keep all possible current paths open when the mic is not in use, and, perhaps, to guard against issues when plugging/unplugging?  



Do I have that right?

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