BNS USB Adapter

UberBob · Basic Member Joined: 30 Mar 2004

I know USB adapters have been discussed to death, but i'm just looking for a quick good or bad response then i'm on my merry way. I've posted this in the Metal pad discussion but I figured more people know about adapters in this forum.

I have made my decision and now am ording the BNS pad to use with stepmania on my computer. I have a quick question, before I order the pad and adapter, the BNS site has an offical BNS ps to USB adapter and I was wondering if this adapter works period and how it's responsiveness. I am very reluctant to order an adapter without hearing from someone else if it works or not. Also, is there another adapter for the same price but better quality that I should order? I have Windows XP for the record. here it is: http://www.buynshop.com/productinfo/45/VG-PS-USB2X1/

Thanks!

greyGizmo · Trick Member Joined: 09 Apr 2004 Location: Draper, UT

The short answer is yes, the BNS adapter does work. I have both the BNS v2.51 pad and the dual converter, and they work together very well.

There are a couple of problems though. First, you have to hold up+start+select within the key config menu before you play. This isn't really that big of a deal, but it does get annoying sometimes. Not sure about what other adapters make you do this, but you can find a good page at www.stepmania.com.

Second, at least with me, I have to unplug and replug the adapter before I start StepMania for the program to recognize the adapter. I am running XP on a laptop, but I am pretty sure that has nothing to do with it. Probably just the adapter (though it doesn't make much sense to me). Anyway, as long as you remember to unplug/replug before you start the program, again not that big of a deal.

Overall, I would recommend this adapter, despite the petty annoyances. Sometimes it is just easier to order from the same company. Oh, BTW be sure to perform the sheet metal mod on your BNS pad. Not sure of the link, but it is stickied in the metal pad forum. You won't be disappointed with the performance of the pad, especially for the price.

UberBob · Basic Member Joined: 30 Mar 2004

Thanks for the info I just ordered the merchandise, but have a couple of questions about the pad.

First, how much does the pad weigh and is it mobile? Does the pad have any lights? Is the metal very shinny or dull looking (some of the pictures on the BNS site have shinny looking pads, and some with 'frosted' metal)? Also, about the weight, my fedex tracking says the package weighs 25.00 lbs (this can't be true because it cant be EXACTLY 25.00 lbs, right?) and this can't be true because the pad weighs atleast 45 lbs, is this just something I should ignore? I emailed BNS and they assured me they sent the correct items, but I still have some doubts.

Also, if you ever played on an arcade pad then had to press down on freeze arrows, you have to PRESS down on the freeze arrows opposed to a soft pad where you only have to put tiny pressure on the arrow. My question is does the pad act like a arcade pad or a soft pad for freeze arrows.

greyGizmo · Trick Member Joined: 09 Apr 2004 Location: Draper, UT

Ok, lets see. Not sure about the weight. It seems like it could weigh 25 pounds, but it seems like more than that when I carry it. It is mobile enough for me to take it to my friends house, but it is heavy enough to make me hesitant to do it again. The pad does move a little on me, but you have to take into consideration that I often stomp hard and play on shag carpet that is very long. It moves maybe two inches on Max 300. On a hard surface, I can't see it moving at all. Mainly because the fabric on the back is sticky like a soft pad.

The pad does have lights. As for the freeze arrows, you will have to put weight on the arrow. Probably won't be as sensitive as some soft pads, but it is not too bad.

If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

UberBob · Basic Member Joined: 30 Mar 2004

i'm having some problems finding the 30 gauge sheet metal at my local home depot or menards, should every menards or home depot have the item or should I look harder? Also, are there any alternative stores where I can buy the sheet metal, except online.

I should recieve my pad tommorow and I don't think I can find the sheet metal in time, do u think it'll be safe to use the pad for awhile before I install the mod?

UberBob · Basic Member Joined: 30 Mar 2004

oh this is just great, I recieved my package today only to find a cypher games pad included.

UberBob · Basic Member Joined: 30 Mar 2004

I need a favor some you, can you tell me what verson BNS pad you have, what are the dimensions of your pad, what does the control box say, and what color are the all the arrows and buttons. Thanks!

greyGizmo · Trick Member Joined: 09 Apr 2004 Location: Draper, UT

Sorry for such a late response.

My pade is version 2.51 and it says BNS in the bottom left-hand corner along with a shipping number.

The pad is 34.25" X 34.25"

The arrow colors are:
Up and Down = Red
Left and Right = Blue
X and O = Gray

The control box says nothing but Start and Select.

As for the 30 guage sheet metal, I bought mine at Home Depot. It was in the ducting area. Just ask an employee.

Again, sorry for the long delay and hope this helps you.