Remote Control for Varian Gating Phantom Box Thing

This is meant to serve as general guide for modifying the Varian Gating Box Phantom for control from outside the room.  The model for a simple switch box is provided.   This involves minimal soldering.  

We are using it for triggering SGRT beam on/off for QA using a model I previously made SGRT Breathing Phantom

Note:  You could do this with a length of your old roommate's speaker wire twisted together.  Cost = Zero.  But where's the fun in that!!  

Concept

• Install an RCA female port in the side of the phantom box wired in parallel to the existing switch.  There is plenty of working room inside that box.  It's just a battery, motor, and switch.   

  • Both switches can be used to control the box.  The one on the box itself or the "re;mote" outside the room.

• Print the "switch box", install a panel mount switch and RCA female port

• Use a commodity RCA subwoofer cable to run through the physics port and connect.

  • I've found there to be minimal voltage drop with the power path running along a typical small gauge RCA cable.  I didn't bother to measure it, but the motor turns just fine.

The whole thing can be done for $40 or much less depending on what is already in your junk drawer.  The RCA cable is the most expensive bit.  I was able to get by with 30' being perfect for a direct shield door vault and my conduit location.  Cable I used from Amazon $29 USD.

You'll also need some RCA female jacks.  I stocked up with these $8USD.    

Any old toggle switch will do, but for that "nuclear bunker feel" you'll want these.. $8

The switch box model for printing includes a modifier region for the "SGRT Text".   Alternately, you could use the slicer text tool to have it say whatever.  

The "Lid" or bottom of the box is attached using M3 countersunk screws with Heat Set Inserts in the box portion.  YOU CAN JUST GLUE IT!.... however, if you don't have an assortment of metric screws and heat set inserts, now is a chance to stock up.  It's worth it.

If additional details are needed, message me.  However for anyone in this field it should be fairly obvious what's going on here.   You'll likely want to solder to the RCA connectors, but there are options for buying screw terminal versions.   Easy Peasy.

Edit:  Switch box has full "LRF Support".  -- detents on bottom for sticky Little Rubber Feet.