How to Match a Switch to a Circuit Bend

Circuit bending is a popular hobby that includes "bending," or short circuiting, an electronic toy or instrument to utilize the circuit board to create new and different sounds controlled by additional switches you install. Get started by matching a switch to a circuit board within the toy.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Heat-resistant surface
• Jewelers screwdrivers
• Batteries
• Alligator clips
• Switches

1. Decide on the electronic toy you are going to bend, gather the other tools you will need, and set up your work station. This should include a heat-resistant surface. If you do not have a heat-resistant surface, purchase a heat-resistant mat from a hardware, home improvement or craft store.

2. Remove the back portion of the casing by using a jewelers screwdriver to remove all of the screws. Lift the back off carefully, watching for any wires that may be connecting the back to the front of the toy. Lay the back open and assess the space and circuit board.

3. Explore the circuit board using alligator clips and the buttons on the toy. You should always put fresh batteries in before doing this, as low batteries can distort the sounds or redistribute the power causing some of the buttons to not produce sound at all.

4. Identify the bends you are interested in making and think about how they can best be controlled. If you want to toggle between two different bends, then a toggle switch is perfect. Match the desired outcome with the switch that will perform that function.