Question 1

What are new optical footswitches all about?

Andrew Wild · Accepted Answer

The original ToneDexter uses spring actuators to press down on a tactile contact switches mounted to the circuit board. We used the best quality switches we could find, but the contacts still wear out eventually. If you have this issue, contact support for repair options.

On ToneDexter II, the spring actuators are the same, but now they interrupt an infrared light beam which tells the software that the footswitch was depressed. Because there is no physical contact, the sensors will never wear out and hence your footswitches will last longer than you.

Question 2

What are new optical footswitches all about?

Andrew Wild · Accepted Answer

The original ToneDexter uses spring actuators to press down on a tactile contact switches mounted to the circuit board. We used the best quality switches we could find, but the contacts still wear out eventually. If you have this issue, contact support for repair options.

On ToneDexter II, the spring actuators are the same, but now they interrupt an infrared light beam which tells the software that the footswitch was depressed. Because there is no physical contact, the sensors will never wear out and hence your footswitches will last longer than you.