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6. Header (P2): By installing a 2x3 header array, you create an ISP (in-system programming)
port. This is a little socket that enables you to plug a cable into your synthesizer and upload (or
"flash") new software onto the control chip. This is covered in detail in the Macchiato Reference
Manual.
Carefully break the header into two pieces with three pins each. You can use your fingers to do
this (31,32).
The short pins go through the board; the long pins point up. Make sure the bottom of the
headers are flush to the circuit board. Tack one pin down with solder while you hold the header
in from the top (33). Once each row has been tacked on, you can solder the other pins in place
(34).
31
33
7. Integrated Circuits (IC's): This kit contains three integrated circuit components for you to install,
plus the microcontroller which comes already installed on the PCB. In general, IC's are quite
sensitive to static electricity and could easily be damaged if they are exposed to moderately
high voltages. Unfortunately, humans are not sensitive to static electricity at these levels; in
fact, most people can't even feel a static discharge less than around 1000 volts! So it is easy
to damage these components without even knowing it. The particular IC's in this kit are only
moderately sensitive to static discharge but it is still import to be mindful of these principles in
handling them. When you do have to handle them, make sure you are grounded, preferably by
touching something grounded to the mains like the metal chassis of a plugged-in amplifier, or a
refrigerator. At the very least you should touch a large conductive object like a metal desk or a
filing cabinet. With this information in mind please proceed carefully.
When soldering IC's, try to keep the IC from getting too hot. Most chips have a temperature
threshold that shouldn't be exceeded. As a rule of thumb don't keep your iron on any leg longer
than two seconds, and make sure the chip stays cool enough to touch. If you find you have a
hard time keeping the IC from getting too hot, just solder one leg at time and let the chip cool off
before proceeding to the next leg.
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34
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