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Gadget Freak Case #124: Controlling the Rocket Fire

William Grill's latest gadget helps control the accidental launch of model rockets

Design News Staff -- Design News, August 8, 2008

William Grill created a gadget that helps control the firing of model rockets. The device provides basic rocket igniter functions, including an igniter “fuse” monitor, audio input and an LED display. The gadget also features a “DeadMan” button (which helps avoid an unintended launch) and a “Fire” button that sends the rocket into the sky. The goal of this inexpensive tool is to reduce the risk of pre-launch ignition and provide a controlled sequence from setup to launch. A small, inexpensive controller manages the DeadMan and Fire buttons.


AmtPart Description
Allied Part #
147Ω ¼W (1/8W may be substituted)832-0153
2100Ω ¼W (1/8W may be substituted)832-0202
12K Ω ¼W (1/8W may be substituted)832-0400
11K Ω ¼W (1/8W may be substituted)832-0356
122K Ω ¼W (1/8W may be substituted)832-0585
130K Ω ¼W (1/8W may be substituted)832-0611
1Piezoalarm (Piezo-element or low-voltage alarm can be used)623-2024
1PIC12F508,508A 12F508A, PDIP may be installed in 10F2xx series or other compatible controllers, 12F508 PDIP used in prototype12C186
2SPST button MPS103-C 3 amp minimum current rating, N.O.61F1213 61F1214
1LED782-0030
11.0 µF*16V (3.3 µF, 10V or larger may be used)507-0676
1Perf board 1 x 3 inch pad 1 side only solderable NPT pads both sides or other packaging977-0088
14-AA holder Keystone 2476/snap on may be portion of purchased ignitor 31C0581
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