Editing AYAB

{{Machine
|ModelName=AYAB
|Manufacturer=All Yarns Are Beautiful (Open Source)
|Type=Electronic Interface / Retrofit
|Patterning=Unlimited Computer-Controlled
|Hardware=Arduino-compatible / Custom Shield
|ReleaseYear=2013
|Developer=Chris-K, Ettore S., Carson H. ([[KnitFactoryImpl]]), et al.
|Website=[https://ayab-knitting.com ayab-knitting.com]
}}

'''AYAB''' (All Yarns Are Beautiful) is an open-source hardware and software project that replaces the proprietary, aging electronics in vintage Brother KH-9xx series electronic knitting machines. By bypassing the original computer "brains," AYAB allows users to control the needle selection solenoids directly via a modern computer over USB, enabling unlimited pattern repeats and complex photographic imagery.<ref name="AYABManual">"AYAB Project Manual," [https://manual.ayab-knitting.com accessed Feb 2026]</ref>

== Functionality ==
The AYAB interface consists of an Arduino-compatible microcontroller and a specialized "Shield" (hardware board) that connects to the machine’s internal wiring. 
* '''Direct Control:''' The software sends signals directly to the machine's 8-pin or 16-pin solenoid cables.
* '''Modern UI:''' Current development includes porting the desktop frontend to the [[Valdi]] framework to improve cross-platform stability and user experience.<ref name="AYAB_GitHub">"AYAB Desktop Repository," GitHub. [https://github.com/allyarnsarebeautiful/ayab-desktop accessed Feb 2026]</ref>
* '''Pattern Support:''' Supports standard image formats (BMP, PNG) and integrates with tools like [[AbstractKnitFactoryFactory]] for garment grading.

== Compatibility ==
AYAB is compatible with most Brother electronic machines, though the hardware shield requirements vary by model:
* '''Brother KH-910:''' The most common retrofit; requires the "Shield" to bypass the early proprietary computer.
* '''Brother KH-930 / 940 / 950i:''' Supported models that allow for advanced patterning.
* '''Brother KH-900 / 965:''' Check specific hardware revisions for compatibility.<ref name="AYAB_Hardware">"AYAB Hardware Repository," GitHub. [https://github.com/AllYarnsAreBeautiful/ayab-hardware accessed Feb 2026]</ref>

== Installation ==
Installation typically involves opening the machine's lid, removing the original logic board, and installing the AYAB shield. This process is non-destructive for many models, allowing the machine to be restored to its original state if desired.

== Maintenance and Support ==
As an open-source project, AYAB is maintained by a global community of developers. Technical tutorials and modernization "hacks" are frequently documented by the [[KnitFactoryImpl]] YouTube channel.

== References ==
<references>
<ref name="AYABManual">"AYAB Project Manual," [https://manual.ayab-knitting.com accessed Feb 2026]</ref>
<ref name="AYAB_GitHub">"AYAB Desktop Repository," GitHub. [https://github.com/allyarnsarebeautiful/ayab-desktop accessed Feb 2026]</ref>
<ref name="AYAB_Hardware">"AYAB Hardware Repository," GitHub. [https://github.com/AllYarnsAreBeautiful/ayab-hardware accessed Feb 2026]</ref>
</references>

[[Category:Aftermarket Modifications]]
[[Category:Open Source Projects]]
[[Category:Brother Accessories]]