1V/Octave Keyboard Encoded with Matrix

This keyboard is monophonic in function as it translates key presses into appropriate voltages in order to obtain 1V/Octave or .08333 volts per semitone.

The keyboard provides gate which goes high when any key is pressed and remains high until all keys are released. It also provides trigger signals that emit a pulse each time a note is changed or pressed. The trigger pulses will still occur any time a new note is played if one plays in a legato fashion in which a key is always pressed and until all keys are released, the gate will stay high.

Electronic reed switches were used by the keyboard with a magnet placed near them for activation. The paddles of a reed switch are very near to one another since they are oriented and made of magnetic alloy. The paddles become magnetized, attract one another and close, when the reed switch is placed into a magnetic field.

An old keyboard which contained wooden piano-like key set is used for keys. The reed switches are stationary and the magnets are mounted on the keys. The keyboard is held by a case with springs for pulling back.