Switchbox reminder tone

[CHIEFOPS]

I have a switchbox that's mounted where it's panel face is normally hidden from view of the driver and occaisionally a function is unintentionally activated.


I want to incorporate a timed reminder tone to audibly remind the function(s) is activated. I looked for a load sensing switch for the switchbox's battery feed wire that would sense a raise in amperage draw and finding none settled on an interval timer switch to trip a buzzer. My only question now is, to wire 6 switch output wires to the timer I assume I need diodes on each of the 6 circuits to prevent back-flow from any switch back to the remaining switches.


What diodes do I need and where to get them?- Radio Shack stocks less and less of these parts and their store staff are clueless nowadays.

 

[MtnMan]

1N5401 would do the job. Cheap on eBay: 10 Pcs 1N5401 100V 3A Rectifier Diode | eBay

 

[NiftyX]

You should still be able to find 3A rectifier diodes at Radio Shack. I got some not long ago. Might be cheaper to get them online though.


You could optionally wire up an LED on the dash that is on or flashes when a function if activated. Not sure what you're using it for (work wise). I don't like the audible tones I've have on boxes in the past and turned them off.

 

[fireman29b]

My Carson 409 beeps at me when mine are on. VERY helpful since you can't hear the "waahhhh, waahhhh, waahhhh" of the old rotator bars in the roof anymore.

 

[GaryErrol]

I had a similar problem as I have mine controlled by remote relays (no switch box) and can not tell when they are on during the day. To fix the problem, I found some single flashing amber 12vdc LED's. I wired one to each relay circuit and put them in the area of my rear window so I could see them in my rear view mirror.

 

[PJD642]

I've got the Mastercom in my Explorer set to do the reminder tones. I'd rather hear a "beep" every 5 seconds than drive around with my alley light on for 5 hours on day shift....

 

[foxtrot5]

IDK about you guys, but I hear it ALL THE TIME on the radio down here. "Unit XX your XYZ lights are on." or even just "Check your lights."


Personally I can't stand the reminder tone but I'm pretty confident in my personal ability to remember what lights are on when.

 

[rwo978]

The reminder beep is nice in theory............ until you're stuck on a traffic detail for 5+ hours, having to listen to that beep every 5 seconds..... it's enough to drive anyone batty.


Damned if you do, Damned if you don't. :crazy:

 

[Q2bman]

Wire it up with a switch. You can turn it on and off when you want. Of coarse you will need a beep to remind you your beep is off lol.