Bitstik Knob

[dhoggan]

I've just picked up a Bitstik which is a complete package other than the knob on top of the stick is missing. I know it is a long shot, but can replacements be bought, modern 3D printed or otherwise?

The weekend project is to disassemble it and give it a good clean! Any tips? I see Lardo had some issues in putting one back together, but nothing on taking apart.

Thanks,

Dave

[dhoggan]

Spent some time today cleaning up and testing the BitStik I picked up. All appears to work - using a little analogue port test program I see the the analogue inputs in ADVAL change when moving in X and Y axis as well as when the top is turned, although it appears to get stiffer the more clockwise it is turned. All three buttons work too. So happy!

It looks a lot better more it is cleaned - I'm put the black caps back on once I'm happy there's the right amount of resistance in the X and Y movement.

I found a photo (courtesy of a Lardo Boffin post) of the bit I'm missing. How easy would be be to 3D print the "globe" on top? Would it look any good?

[Ukwebb]

I'm guessing the globe part goes over the knob you have in your own photo.
It may be better 3d printed on a resin printer but I'd be happy to try it on my fdm machine for you, just need some good measurements off that knob stem
Use some digital Vernier calipers not a ruler

[daveejhitchins]

I'm guessing the globe part goes over the knob you have in your own photo.
It may be better 3d printed on a resin printer but I'd be happy to try it on my fdm machine for you, just need some good measurements off that knob stem

Use PETG, if you have some - a lot stronger!

[dhoggan]

I'm guessing the globe part goes over the knob you have in your own photo.
Use some digital Vernier calipers not a ruler

I think I have a cheap air somewhere. Let me find them and see how accurate they are.

Looking at an image search there seem to be a lot without the ball on top so I'm guessing that they were an easy-to-lose part. Also, maybe a bit of a market for replacements one!

Dave

[dhoggan]

This is more a request for current BitStik owners but, if you have a BitStik that has the top "globe" is there a chance you could take some measurements?

Ukwebb's offer to try and print one up is wonderful, and I'm aware I've only provided a photo of what it looks like and likely one not best suited for gauging dimensions etc.

Also, it the top globe naked plastic, or is there some kind of coating to make it non-slip?

Any info gratefully accepted!

[RobC]

Pretty sure the knob has a rubbery feel but I'll check when I get home later today.

Happy to take measurements or even send one to UKWebb - I have a spare Apple II Bitstik somewhere in the loft.

[Ukwebb]

Pretty sure the knob has a rubbery feel but I'll check when I get home later today.

Happy to take measurements or even send one to UKWebb - I have a spare Apple II Bitstik somewhere in the loft.

That would be awesome Rob if you could thanks
If it is rubbery, then TPU wouldn't be a problem

[dhoggan]

That would be fantastic.

As for the Apple II... this is what I'm doing right now - learning VisiCalc on the IIe!

And if you ever want to part with the Apple II version, then I'd be interested - a long term goal is to use the Apple II with the BitStik and the one of the robotic arms available back in the day! Edited to add that the robotic arms are likely the rarest thing on planet Earth!

Edited to add: I'll never be rude about Excel again! Spreadsheets have come a long way in terms of usability since 1979!

[dhoggan]

RobC, did you get a chance to look for the BitStik? If it's anything like my loft then that's easier said than done, but even measurements would be useful.

Thanks,

Dave