DIY Editing Remote control for Panasonic DVD Video Recorders

(A guerrilla remote control to make editing on DMR-E80/E85/E100 just a bit more enjoyable)
The idea works for any other DVD recorders.

Pages: Intro 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Disassembly

In this step I will try to disassemble the PS1 controllers to collect all the switches, joystick and to salvage the directional pad.

Taking out the joystick is easy. It is all contained into one component After opening the controller I have to take out only four screws and the joystick is main. It will be equally easy to add it to my board.

For the push buttons, this already require some de-soldering. As I de solder the board on the back around the button contacts, they basically fell down.

The PS1 controller from inside before the surgery.	The joystick controller is removed. I couldn't buy better one eve if I try.	Here are the push-buttons in the original mask.	The buttons are already out.

I checked all buttons and the joystick with ohm-meter just to be sure they are all good. Checking every step is the best way to make sure the result will work without any problems.

The last, most difficult part of the disassembly step, is the directional pad from the second controller. Here I have to cut out the circuit board, since the contacts for the pad are on it. Then I have to remove all the unnecessary copper lines and components so only the contacts will remain. Destroying board is much easier than making it. All what is needed is excessive heat from the solder tool and making sure the contacts stay clear.

The second controller will be used for its directional pad only.	I removed the unnecessary lines and to basically have only the contacts.	Here is detailed view at the part with contacts.	This is the salvage so far. A full box of buttons, switches and other goodies.

So now I have a full box of switches, push buttons and screws. I also took out the wires from the controller cable. They are thin, yet strong to sustain the controller abuse each is in different color. What can I wish more.

Now is the time to look at the remote control. The following part is the most delicate.