Sam Harris requested information concerning a pneumatic roll reader and
its interfacing to a MIDI system where the hole/no-hole information can
be recorded into a MIDI file.

I've worked on the design of such a system which I feel is perfect for
the hobbyist who wants to MIDI-ize a roll.  It is very compact and uses
the "poppet system/photo detector".  Small T-shaped poppets (er, hollow
aluminum or brass rivets!) are used and it is a very responsive system.

No, I would not put it up against the sophisticated laser systems --
that was not the intent of the design.  It's use was for us non-archival
folks who just want to hear the music and fool around with the
resulting MIDI files.

It was never built, unfortunately.  I did build a small section to test
out the poppet idea and I was very pleased with the results.  When the
poppets rose in response to an open tracker bar hole, they broke the
light beam from a miniature led with a mini detector on the other end.
This entire unit can be built as a tracker bar with no tubing, nipples,
etc.

My interest in obtaining nickelodeon roll MIDI conversion files is no
more.  I gave away all my rolls.  You also need to know that I was a
tool and die designer, machinist, Industrial Arts high school teacher,
and a professor of Industrial Technology in my work-life (now retired).
So I just ain't telling you I have a sketch of an idea.

The hole-to-MIDI signal conversion can be simple, I believe.  I am
presently researching and working on a one-octave pedal board for use
in a small entertainment band that I belong.  We need a bass player at
times and I think that using an old Hammond spinet organ pedal unit
connected to a synth can solve our bassman problem.  The pedal contacts
have to be converted to MIDI signals and I did some research on that.

There are several web sites on the market but, man, is it difficult
getting design information from these people.  Web sites which show
pictures and say, "Hey, we have what you want.  Here it is!" and then
drop you with no technical info, no pricing (well one does have pricing
but way out of line for what is offered), and no way to contact anyone.
And if you do contact anyone you get no response or have to wait a week
for a message that gives you no additional info.  What's up here?

But I did find a great MIDI Keyboard Encoder site from Ireland.
Information, pricing (cheap for a 127-note encoder), quick email
response, and lots of data.  Here is the address:

  http://tomscarff.tripod.com/key2midi/key2midi.htm

My design is not for sale. I don't mind sharing it with you or anyone
else for a 9x12 envelope and 3 ounces worth of stamps.  If it causes a
deluge of responses then I may have to ask for more due to restrictions
on my retirement time.  How did I ever have time to work during my
life?

Andy LaTorre <italiano34@hotmail.com>