Summary of Use foot switch to open Linux terminal using an Arduino
This project demonstrates how to make a foot pedal to launch the Linux terminal using an Arduino, aiming to avoid using a mouse for this task. The foot switch is connected to the Arduino via wires and a pull-down resistor. A Python script on a Linux machine (Debian with XFCE) listens to the Arduino's serial output to open the terminal when the pedal is pressed. Basic soldering and wiring skills are needed, along with components like an Arduino, foot switch, wires, and resistor.
Parts used in the Foot Pedal to Start Linux Terminal Project:
- Arduino system
- Foot switch
- Wire
- 10k pull-down resistor (optional if not integrated in Arduino)
- Header connector
So here is how i made my foot pedal used to start Linux terminal using an Arduino. It’s made because I am board of pressing the terminal icon with my mouse.
P.S. Sorry for my English. I am from Croatia.
Tools needed:
-Soldering iron and some solder
-Wire clippers or any other cutting tool
-Screwdriver
Parts needed:
-Arduino system
-Foot switch (I found mine in my workshop)
-Wire
-10k pull-down resistor or you can use one integrated in arduino
-Header connector
Computer with Linux (I am using Debian stable (Sid) with XFCE), python with installed serial and OS module and, of course, the Arduino program.
Step 1: The pedal switch
OK, I found mine pedal in my workshop but you can order it on-line for pretty cheap.
First you need to open it and find contacts for the switch.
If you have NC(normally closed), NO(normally opened) and COM(common). Use the NO and COM.
Strip the isolation form the wires off.
Now connect the wires to the NO and COM connectors and close up the casing.
Step 2: Connecting pedal to the Arduino
First strip the insulation from the other end of the wire. And solder the stripped part of the wire on to the header connector.
Snip the connector into half one connect to pin 8 and other to GND. If you are using external 10 k ohm resistor connect one pin to the pin
8 of the Arduino and second pin to the 5V pin of the Arduino.
-Foot switch
-Wire
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