A build-in-progress organ is in need of some control electronics. We decided to make the organ midi compatible to be able to do lots of fun things with it in the future. Recording and playback will be possible, also remote control of the organ will be in reach.
We have chosen to run the midi connection over an RS485 bus to be able to transfer longer distances. we use ethernet cable for interconnections. An 48V line is also available on the ethernet cable to power the control electronics.
The first module we developed is a configurable 64 channel input/output module. This module can be used to read inputs such as keys or register selection. The output are design to drive solenoids that open air paths.
This is an ongoing project and loads of design decision are still to be finalized.
I see that pipe organ and I hear "In a Gadda da Vida". And that's not a bad thing.