#148681 - 15/03/2003 13:42
Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Well, now that my docks are shipping, and the backlit button kits don't seem to be, I'd like to gauge interest in doing backlit buttons via the "pinhole" method described elsewhere on this BBS.
Basically, this would involve me supplying and installing the 4-gang resistor pack and four button LEDs, and drilling small holes through the tips of the existing grey player buttons to let the light through. These small pinholes would then be patched smooth and flush with dabs of clear epoxy, which would still let some light through.
It may even be possible to have a single LED placed under the knob too, with a few pinholes there as well.
The fee for this service would likely be around US$60-75 or so, parts and labour included, return shipping not included (those LEDs are very pricey, wow!). As with the button kit installs, you would remove the display board from your unit, send it to me, and I would do the installation and return it via shipping method of your choice.
Nothing definite yet, just checking the level of interest. I will be doing this to one of my own players for sure. And there's nothing about this that would prevent later retrofit of Brian's translucent button caps or full knob kits.
??
Edited by mlord (15/03/2003 13:43)
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#148682 - 15/03/2003 13:57
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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enthusiast
Registered: 15/02/2002
Posts: 314
Loc: New Hampshire, USA
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I would be interested in this. When you are done with yours could we see some pics?
Thanks!
_________________________
Doug
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#148683 - 15/03/2003 14:37
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: phi144]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Yeah, after I solder my own together, I'll post pics. Another week or two from now, maybe. Meanwhile.. You've Got Mail!
-ml
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#148684 - 15/03/2003 14:39
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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enthusiast
Registered: 15/02/2002
Posts: 314
Loc: New Hampshire, USA
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You've Got Mail!
Back at ya!
Edited by phi144 (15/03/2003 14:39)
_________________________
Doug
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#148685 - 15/03/2003 14:59
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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veteran
Registered: 25/04/2000
Posts: 1529
Loc: Arizona
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That sounds great. I would be interested in a couple of sets.
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#148686 - 15/03/2003 15:35
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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enthusiast
Registered: 06/03/2003
Posts: 269
Loc: Wellingborough, UK
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My local model shop sells fluorescent, coloured and clear perspex rod in diameters from 1mm to 5mm in 0.5mm steps. It might be a good alternative to filling the drilled hole with epoxy (you'll probably still need epoxy to keep it in place).
Once cut to length, simply polish with ever finer grades of sandpaper or wet-n-dry emery paper before fixing in place.
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#148687 - 15/03/2003 16:08
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 05/01/2001
Posts: 4903
Loc: Detroit, MI USA
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Mark, you should toss together one site that has links to all the services you offer. Even it they are just links to BBS threads so you don't have to update the site a lot. You do button kit installs, docking stations and maybe tuner assembly?
_________________________
Brad B.
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#148688 - 15/03/2003 16:12
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: SE_Sport_Driver]
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Carpal Tunnel
Registered: 08/02/2002
Posts: 3411
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I'm still hunting through the linux kernel for the 'time machine' code that must be there.
_________________________
Mk2a 60GB Blue. Serial 030102962
sig.mp3: File Format not Valid.
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#148689 - 15/03/2003 16:14
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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enthusiast
Registered: 10/01/2002
Posts: 362
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that would be nice to have.when ever your ready,you can do both of mine.
_________________________
040103958 60g
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#148690 - 15/03/2003 16:46
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: thrasher]
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old hand
Registered: 31/12/2001
Posts: 1109
Loc: Petaluma, CA
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count me in, i like this method better.
_________________________
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Justin Larsen
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#148691 - 15/03/2003 17:28
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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stranger
Registered: 09/07/2002
Posts: 52
Loc: Arizona, USA
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I was thinking about doing something like this to match my other car buttons. My buttons are black with small white triangles. But they turn red at night.
Will these LED lights only turn on when the headlights are on?
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#148692 - 15/03/2003 17:32
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: Caps]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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No, they're either always on, or always off, brightness is tunable via Hijack.
But they do "dim" when the headlights are on.
Cheers
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#148693 - 15/03/2003 18:10
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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addict
Registered: 27/12/2001
Posts: 504
Loc: Lummi Island, WA
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I've been waiting about a year plus for my led kit to arrive from Brian, so count me in for at least one.
_________________________
...all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.
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#148694 - 15/03/2003 20:10
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: fusto]
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pooh-bah
Registered: 12/01/2002
Posts: 2009
Loc: Brisbane, Australia
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I've been on Brian's list for about a year now, so I've kinda given up hope. I understand the delays he is having - there's always something else to get done.
I will at least be interested to see how you do this Mark. Hugo's in Australia right now and has brought over some buttons for me to try this exact mod.
_________________________
Christian
#40104192 120Gb (no longer in my E36 M3, won't fit the E46 M3)
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#148695 - 15/03/2003 20:29
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: Shonky]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Yeah, I think this method is a good basic way to be able to operate the player while driving at night. Maybe I'll see you in Oz later in the year..
Cheers
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#148696 - 15/03/2003 20:33
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 20/12/1999
Posts: 31600
Loc: Seattle, WA
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These small pinholes would then be patched smooth and flush with dabs of clear epoxy, which would still let some light through. Somewhere in this forum is a thread where I posted an "artist's conception" of a more advanced version of this. The idea was to make larger holes and fill them with translucent epoxy, not just pinholes. I don't think anyone ever tried it.
Unfortunately, I can't seem to locate the thread where I posted that picture. Anyone else got a link?
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#148697 - 15/03/2003 22:02
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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addict
Registered: 27/12/2001
Posts: 504
Loc: Lummi Island, WA
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_________________________
...all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.
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#148699 - 15/03/2003 23:29
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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old hand
Registered: 14/02/2002
Posts: 804
Loc: Salt Lake City, UT
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So I just decided to bust out the dremel and go to town. Here's what I have so far.
_________________________
-Michael
#040103696 on a shelf
Mk2a - 90 GB - Red - Illuminated buttons
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#148700 - 16/03/2003 00:32
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: Waterman981]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 20/12/1999
Posts: 31600
Loc: Seattle, WA
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KEWL. Now to find the proper epoxy (or perhaps proper pigment to mix into clear epoxy) to make it complete...
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#148701 - 16/03/2003 01:57
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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enthusiast
Registered: 10/10/2000
Posts: 350
Loc: Copenhagen SW, Denmark
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I would be interrested in just buying the kit.
Marius (Escort Cab + Mark II; 2CV + Mark 2a)
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#148702 - 16/03/2003 03:40
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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addict
Registered: 27/10/2002
Posts: 568
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Why use only one LED under the knob? People were complaining when there were three LEDs on Brian's kit because the light wasn't even enough.... Why not make up boards similar to Brian's new board, unless he has copyrights and won't let you use his design....?
Stig
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#148703 - 16/03/2003 07:46
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: jane]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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If you want "just the kit", then order the resistor pack and LEDs yourself, directly from Digikey. The parts numbers have been posted on this BBS and (I think) on RioCar.Org recently. I believe minimum quantity is 10 on the resistor packs, and the LEDs are around $3-$5 each in singles.
Cheers
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#148704 - 16/03/2003 07:50
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: StigOE]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Why use only one LED under the knob? People were complaining when there were three LEDs on Brian's kit because the light wasn't even enough.... Why not make up boards similar to Brian's new board, unless he has copyrights and won't let you use his design....?
Well, the answer to your first question, why one LED, is that there appear to be leftover traces and mounting pads on the displayboard for one LED near the knob. I am hoping to use that for simple installation.
The answers to your second question are varied, but basically boil down to: (1) not interested, (2) not nice (I *am* Canadian, eh), (3) tfabris has a better knob solution anyway, that could be assembled and sold as an install-yourself kit, and (4) I'm trying to keep this simple enough that I don't lose too much money on it (when I'm soldering or gluing docks, I'm not hacking Linux for a living.. guess which pays better?)
Cheers
Edited by mlord (16/03/2003 07:53)
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#148705 - 16/03/2003 10:05
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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enthusiast
Registered: 14/06/2002
Posts: 337
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Does anyone know if they have any "spare" buttons left over? I have been thinking of doing this same thing with the buttons, but I don't want to use my original ones.
_________________________
Ben
mk2a 60gig green/Greenlights Buttons
mk2a 60gig green/Greenlights Buttons
mk2a 40gig blue no illumination....yet
hijacked
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#148706 - 16/03/2003 10:28
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mrfixit]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 10/06/1999
Posts: 5916
Loc: Wivenhoe, Essex, UK
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I think Rob said they had thousands of spare buttons, but he might have been exagerating.
_________________________
Remind me to change my signature to something more interesting someday
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#148707 - 16/03/2003 10:46
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: andy]
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addict
Registered: 27/12/2001
Posts: 504
Loc: Lummi Island, WA
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Just a thought but maybe Mark could get a bulk load of buttons from the empeg guys, and roll the cost into the kit install. Cant imagine it would cost that much.
And that way those who wanted to keep their stock buttons intact could.
That is, if Mark wanted to go along with it and the empeg guys would be willing to send out some.
_________________________
...all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.
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#148708 - 16/03/2003 10:50
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: fusto]
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enthusiast
Registered: 15/02/2002
Posts: 314
Loc: New Hampshire, USA
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Great idea, if all are willing.
_________________________
Doug
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#148709 - 16/03/2003 12:15
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: andy]
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enthusiast
Registered: 14/06/2002
Posts: 337
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Should I email Rob directly? I would like to get a couple sets of buttons/knobs.
_________________________
Ben
mk2a 60gig green/Greenlights Buttons
mk2a 60gig green/Greenlights Buttons
mk2a 40gig blue no illumination....yet
hijacked
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#148710 - 16/03/2003 12:55
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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there appear to be leftover traces and mounting pads on the displayboard for one LED near the knob. I am hoping to use that for simple installation.
Today I disassembled one of my players, and desoldered the IR daughterboard as well (the little PCB above the knob that holds the LED and two IR modules).
The traces on the main board that appeared to be for a resistor and LED are, in fact, for a resistor and LED. It appears that the original layout was to have the IR module on the main board (there are unused pads for it there), and the throbbling LED down below the knob, again on the main board. At some point, the design changed, and they added the tiny daughterboard to hold the LED in a new position, along with the IR receiver, and the new IRDA transceiver.
EDIT: Actually, there are also pads for the IRDA on the main display board as well.. so I wonder if the whole point of the daughterboard was just to move the throbbing LED to the top? Mmm.. no wonder this thing was expensive to build!
So, I soldered in a resistor (1K) and LED, and turned it on. Sure enough, it simply behaved identically to the regular throbbing LED. Then I cut the top trace from the new LED, and connected to the button illumination control signal, and.. it works just fine as such. Pics to follow.
Here's a photo of the main display board, with the IR daughterboard removed:
Edited by mlord (16/03/2003 15:59)
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#148714 - 16/03/2003 14:29
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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veteran
Registered: 19/06/2000
Posts: 1495
Loc: US: CA
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KEWL.
So I'm not the only one that uses that. Kewl. 
Edit:
Hmm... The [image] ([img]) tag is actually checked for a valid image extension in the URL.
Test:
Edited by ricin (16/03/2003 14:43)
_________________________
Donato MkII/080000565 MkIIa/010101253 ricin.us
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#148716 - 16/03/2003 14:50
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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veteran
Registered: 19/06/2000
Posts: 1495
Loc: US: CA
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Ok, I don't pronounce it differently, but I've been spelling it that way since my Local BBS days. I do have another friend that uses it and pronounces it "KOO-el," though. 
_________________________
Donato MkII/080000565 MkIIa/010101253 ricin.us
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#148717 - 16/03/2003 15:01
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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enthusiast
Registered: 15/02/2002
Posts: 314
Loc: New Hampshire, USA
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Shutter...
_________________________
Doug
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#148718 - 16/03/2003 16:04
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: Waterman981]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Nice dremel job! Those are going to look very nice when filled in and lit up!
Note the wonders of auto-exposure cameras.. Those are probably light grey buttons on a white piece of paper, but the camera has tried to average it all out to 18% grey, so the buttons ended up black and the paper ended up gray..
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#148719 - 16/03/2003 16:35
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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old hand
Registered: 14/02/2002
Posts: 804
Loc: Salt Lake City, UT
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Thanks! and yup about the picture... I think if I had the macro zoom attachment it would help, but still.... I was just trying to get them close up and in focus! I have been working on the sides more with my dremel, and it's getting better, but it does take time and patience. I really don't want to screw these up.
_________________________
-Michael
#040103696 on a shelf
Mk2a - 90 GB - Red - Illuminated buttons
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#148720 - 16/03/2003 17:15
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: genixia]
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addict
Registered: 03/03/2002
Posts: 687
Loc: Atlanta, Georgia
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I'm still hunting through the linux kernel for the 'time machine' code that must be there.
You found it. You just don't know it yet.
Me.
_________________________
Mike 'Fox' Morrey
128BPM@124MPH. Love it!
2002 BRG Mini Cooper
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#148721 - 16/03/2003 17:17
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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addict
Registered: 03/03/2002
Posts: 687
Loc: Atlanta, Georgia
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I jhate sounding like a broken record but..
I'm Game for it, of course! I think the pinhole lights would look good with the toggles in my Mini.
Me.
_________________________
Mike 'Fox' Morrey
128BPM@124MPH. Love it!
2002 BRG Mini Cooper
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#148722 - 17/03/2003 04:11
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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enthusiast
Registered: 18/07/2001
Posts: 299
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I've kept holding out for some flourescent material buttons, as they could be self installed.
Did anyone ever cast any ?
_________________________
LTJ
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#148723 - 17/03/2003 05:55
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Mmm.. I just noticed on Brians Button Kit site that there is now a third version of his excellent Knob-LED board there. Maybe he's ramping up production again (?).
Cheers
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#148724 - 17/03/2003 06:13
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 20/05/2001
Posts: 2616
Loc: Bruges, Belgium
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Gee, I hope so, I've been on the waiting list for more than a year now.
OTOH, where have you seen this? I've checked the site myself, and I did not find any information about this. It also states it hasn't been updated since may last year.
_________________________
Riocar 80gig S/N : 010101580 red
Riocar 80gig (010102106) - backup
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#148725 - 17/03/2003 06:31
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: BartDG]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 15/08/2000
Posts: 4859
Loc: New Jersey, USA
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The third knob board is a redesign of the original 4LED board. It has been around for a while - I remember seeing it months ago. In fact, at the time, I thought it was based on feedback from the installers (you included, Mark) that the original 4LED design was harder to work with, based on placement of the tracks.
I have not seen any changes on the site recently, or for the last few months for that matter. Has anyone heard from Brian recently?
_________________________
Paul Grzelak
200GB with 48MB RAM, Illuminated Buttons and Digital Outputs
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#148726 - 17/03/2003 11:22
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: fusto]
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enthusiast
Registered: 18/01/2002
Posts: 270
Loc: Arizona USA
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Your sig...
You forgot WIND you need WIND!!!!!!
_________________________
Elvis
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#148727 - 18/03/2003 09:36
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: elvis]
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pooh-bah
Registered: 09/08/2000
Posts: 2091
Loc: Edinburgh, Scotland
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I guess it could be a tall motor driven ship
_________________________
Rory
MkIIa, blue lit buttons, memory upgrade, 1Tb in Subaru Forester STi
MkII, 240Gb in Mark Lord dock
MkII, 80Gb SSD in dock
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#148728 - 18/03/2003 12:49
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: elvis]
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addict
Registered: 27/12/2001
Posts: 504
Loc: Lummi Island, WA
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Bah... Wind is a pain in the arse. Dies right when you need it, and kicks up a fuss when youre totally un-prepared.
Stars are at least a fairly constant variable. Unless of course its foggy...
Heres a windy day crossing the pacific.
_________________________
...all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.
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#148729 - 18/03/2003 12:50
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: fusto]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 25/12/2000
Posts: 16706
Loc: Raleigh, NC US
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Dude, your ocean's tilted.
_________________________
Bitt Faulk
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#148730 - 18/03/2003 12:53
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: fusto]
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enthusiast
Registered: 18/01/2002
Posts: 270
Loc: Arizona USA
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Aye cap'n. thas what it's all about!
_________________________
Elvis
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#148731 - 18/03/2003 14:52
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: wfaulk]
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addict
Registered: 27/12/2001
Posts: 504
Loc: Lummi Island, WA
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Dude, your ocean's tilted. Yeah...
And technically it should be tilting the other way!
We were dealing with some serious swells that day.
_________________________
...all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.
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#148732 - 19/03/2003 11:12
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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Don't lose hope just yet guys... In the final stages here... just trying to produce without the tiny bubbles...
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148733 - 19/03/2003 11:14
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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Another...
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148734 - 19/03/2003 14:05
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 20/12/1999
Posts: 31600
Loc: Seattle, WA
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just trying to produce without the tiny bubbles... Great. Now I've got Don Ho stuck in my head. Thanks. 
(The mold looks great, glad to see someone else giving this a shot. I love Brian's work, but he's clearly backlogged and it'd be nice to see others producing, too.)
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#148735 - 19/03/2003 14:18
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 25/12/2000
Posts: 16706
Loc: Raleigh, NC US
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tiny bubbles... Great. Now I've got Don Ho stuck in my head. Thanks. I don't know if this will make it better or worse, but try thinking of the Willie Nelson version.
At least it wasn't Mele Kalikimaka.
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Bitt Faulk
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#148736 - 19/03/2003 14:25
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: wfaulk]
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addict
Registered: 27/12/2001
Posts: 504
Loc: Lummi Island, WA
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At least it wasn't Mele Kalikimaka. dammit!!
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...all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.
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#148737 - 19/03/2003 16:42
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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Yeah I emailed Brian just to make sure he didn't mind, his response left me at the conclusion that he wasn't really going to be doing this any more... at least any time soon. So I got his blessing.
Things left to do: Get the bubbles out (at least not so noticeable) which I think I'm almost there and make a mold of the mold outta plastic so I don't have to go casting buttons everytime I wear my mold out... that and if I start to fall behind I can always just whip out another mold quickly and double production.
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148738 - 19/03/2003 17:30
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 20/12/1999
Posts: 31600
Loc: Seattle, WA
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his response left me at the conclusion that he wasn't really going to be doing this any more... at least any time soon. Sorry to hear that! But glad to know you're carrying on the tradition.
Things left to do: Get the bubbles out (at least not so noticeable) which I think I'm almost there Did Brian give you any tips? His buttons (at least the ones I've seen) are bubble-free.
Do you have any ideas about what pigments to use for possibly doing translucent white or translucent gray buttons that diffuse the light more across their surface?
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#148739 - 19/03/2003 17:33
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Dude!!! Sweet will you be making the full kit LED's, buttons, and stuff or just the buttons? Either way I'll buy a set when you're ready.
I'll take the blue ones...
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148741 - 19/03/2003 17:43
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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LOL It would be better but thats all i could fit in the 65x75 area this is what I edited it from http://www.frontiernet.net/~jrmichael/percious.bmp
Thanks I knew someone would say something
ok so i can't spell )
Edited by JrFaust (19/03/2003 17:48)
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148742 - 19/03/2003 17:46
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 20/05/2001
Posts: 2616
Loc: Bruges, Belgium
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That link doesn't work. The word 'precious' is spelt wrong in it. (preciuos)
_________________________
Riocar 80gig S/N : 010101580 red
Riocar 80gig (010102106) - backup
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#148743 - 19/03/2003 17:48
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: BartDG]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 20/12/1999
Posts: 31600
Loc: Seattle, WA
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Even after correcting the spelling, it still didn't work.
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#148745 - 19/03/2003 17:50
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Ok try it now... sorry
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148746 - 19/03/2003 21:27
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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Did Brian give you any tips? His buttons (at least the ones I've seen) are bubble-free.
we're both using the same materials, same plastic, everything, the only thing the tech from www.smoothon.com could suggest was that there was more moisture in my area, which kinda sucks. Anyway I'm now working with the possiblity of possibly the amount I've been mixing (up until now I've been using very small amounst, but I have a gut feeling that maybe by using more and letting the materials set for a while before mixing perhaps I can cut down the amount of bubbles)
Smoothon has a lot of different colors for pigment, I know they have, red, blue, yellow, green... I'm checking right now if they have white or grey
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148747 - 20/03/2003 02:32
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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enthusiast
Registered: 28/03/2002
Posts: 230
Loc: Dudley, UK
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The only guaranteed way to avoid the bubbles is to "de-gas" your casting compound before you use it. We do this at work in a small vacuum chamber (essentially a thick goldfish bowl with a vacuum line attached) takes about 10 seconds and you'd be surprised how much gas comes out.
For home use you could get a hand operated vacuum pump from a school lab supplies company and simply connect it to a small vessel (like a champagne bottle that can stand a bit of pressure - you don't want to implode a glass container, it isn't nice). Put your mixture in the bottle leaving at least 80% air space (you can generate an awful lot of resinous froth and you don't want that in your vacuum pump) and evacuate it , then pour into your moulds and hey-presto, bubble free castings.
Cheers, Sim
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#148748 - 20/03/2003 05:14
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 10/06/1999
Posts: 5916
Loc: Wivenhoe, Essex, UK
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Love the new avatar, JrFaust. I'm a bit concerned that the character is fondling his empeg in the nude, but... to each his own, I suppose
Ahhh, it's an empeg !
When I first saw the avatar I didn't realise it was an empeg, it looked like he was lifting his bed clothes with one hand, while the other had was out of shot. Now it makes more sense...
_________________________
Remind me to change my signature to something more interesting someday
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#148749 - 20/03/2003 07:25
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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Well, just buttons.... but in this post... You'll find all the part numbers you need.
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148750 - 20/03/2003 07:28
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: simspos]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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Cool, I'm willing to try anything, any ideas where I can find a small inexpensive vacuum pump for this? Google searches are turning up only aquarium stuff and really expensive industrial vacuum pumps (maybe I just suck at google searches)
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148751 - 20/03/2003 07:30
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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..and the knob board (the only non "off the shelf" part) isn't really needed. A simple alternative for a single knob LED is shown earlier in this thread. And tfabris has another multi-LED method that's a bit trickier but workable.
Cheers
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#148752 - 20/03/2003 07:34
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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enthusiast
Registered: 10/09/2002
Posts: 285
Loc: DFW Area, Texas, US
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typing "hand operated vacuum pump" into google I got to http://www.sciencekit.com/Products/Display.cfm?categoryid=303712, it was in the first ten results.
_________________________
Mark.
[blue]MKI, MKII & MKIIa, all Blue, and all Mine![/blue]
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#148753 - 20/03/2003 07:34
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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I use a (heavy) vaccuum pump for veneering work in the shop, but lighter alternatives also exist. Here is a REALLY good product:
http://www.vacupress.com/products2.htm#compact100
Mind you, that's a whole veneering kit, but it's not too pricey. For your project, just make a thick plywood box to hold your gel container, put a lid on it, and put it inside the vaccuum bag. Pump it for a few seconds, then remove and pour.
Cheers
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#148754 - 20/03/2003 07:36
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Wow.. okay, the hand pump wins. But some kind of airtight container is still needed. Plastic wrap (vapour barrier grade) is your Friend. That and duct tape.
Cheers
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#148755 - 20/03/2003 07:42
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Oh yeah, the forces we're talking about here can really add up.. 14lbs/sq.inch or so. Not much on it's own, but square inches have a way of adding up!
So, whatever pump you get, the way to use it safely is probably to just make a small but sturdy plywood box to completely enclose your (open) jar of mixed up gel. A hole or two for airflow in the box is needed, then wrap the whole thing in plastic, duct tape it shut, with the pump hose passing through the plastic into the box at some location. pump.
Cheers
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#148756 - 20/03/2003 07:47
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: Chimaera]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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damn... I hate it when I get busted out for being lazy....
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148757 - 20/03/2003 07:58
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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I also did my own LED board in this thread, with pic... I built mine with some of that pre-fab circuit board from radio shack.
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148758 - 20/03/2003 08:04
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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enthusiast
Registered: 10/09/2002
Posts: 285
Loc: DFW Area, Texas, US
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Sorry, just trying to be helpful
_________________________
Mark.
[blue]MKI, MKII & MKIIa, all Blue, and all Mine![/blue]
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#148759 - 20/03/2003 08:15
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 25/12/2000
Posts: 16706
Loc: Raleigh, NC US
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You could also try one of those Foodsaver dealies, and get multiple uses out of it. Despite their infomercial sales tactics, it seems to really be a quality product, and you can buy them at the WalMart, etc. Make sure you get one that has a hose attachment, though. All but the bottom of the line one do.
_________________________
Bitt Faulk
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#148760 - 20/03/2003 09:15
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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On a side note, when and if I get all the kinks worked out, I'll be providing both types of volume knob with my kit (provided your knob board will accomodate the depth of the mk1 volume knob).
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148761 - 20/03/2003 09:19
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: Chimaera]
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enthusiast
Registered: 28/03/2002
Posts: 230
Loc: Dudley, UK
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Yep, that vacuum pump was an excellent hit and far cheaper than anything I came up with.
I talked to our production engineer who recently did some vacuum de-gassing of silicon mould making rubber and he recommends going to a minimum of 20 and preferably 25 inches of mercury (which just happens to be the maximum vacuum that the linked pump draws - nice one!) and holding it there for about a minute
And again the warning... have at least 5 times the volume of air to liquid above the liquid you are evacuating - it will froth like shaken up lemonade / beer / whatever and you really don't want that in your newly purchased vacuum pump.
Oh, and Mark Lords point about enclosing the kit in case of disaster is well worth noting.
Cheers, Sim
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#148762 - 20/03/2003 10:04
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: simspos]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 25/12/2000
Posts: 16706
Loc: Raleigh, NC US
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They also have some vacuum plates and bell jars over at that science supply site:
Plate & Polycarbonate Jar
etc.
_________________________
Bitt Faulk
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#148763 - 20/03/2003 20:32
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Ok I just ordered all the LED's and resisters and stuff from Digikey so all I need are new buttons.
I used the part number MMBT3906DICT-ND for the transistor hope that’s an acceptable one to use.
Thanks for the link to the parts list, I couldn't find it under the FAQ but I think I used the wrong wording on the search 
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148764 - 21/03/2003 01:43
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: wfaulk]
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enthusiast
Registered: 28/03/2002
Posts: 230
Loc: Dudley, UK
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[homer] mmmh..... bell jars
Now we're getting seriously industrial,.... but if you are expecting to get a quality finish, you gotta invest in the right kit (and if you're thinking of selling buttons, the investment will soon pay).
Nothing more disappointing than spending a whole lotta time casting or moulding something only to find that poor surface finish ruins the job. I hate it when that happens.. grrrr.
Cast On, Sim
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#148766 - 21/03/2003 07:17
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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enthusiast
Registered: 28/03/2002
Posts: 230
Loc: Dudley, UK
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This is very true and for most vacuum bag moulding, the commercial kit is pretty much the same (thicker plastic wrap & stickier tape) but more expensive - no big surprises there.
But a bell jar !!! - there is a thing of beauty 
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#148767 - 21/03/2003 07:38
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: simspos]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 19/01/2002
Posts: 3584
Loc: Columbus, OH
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Does anyone find anything remotely sexual about this picture of a Bell Jar kit?
_________________________
~ John
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#148768 - 21/03/2003 07:48
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JBjorgen]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 27/06/1999
Posts: 7058
Loc: Pittsburgh, PA
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LOL!!! That would be *perfect* for Maxim Magazine's "Found Porn" section.
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#148769 - 21/03/2003 07:55
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JBjorgen]
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enthusiast
Registered: 28/03/2002
Posts: 230
Loc: Dudley, UK
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Now that's just sick - who would do that to an innocent bell jar?
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#148770 - 21/03/2003 11:35
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: fusto]
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enthusiast
Registered: 10/10/2000
Posts: 350
Loc: Copenhagen SW, Denmark
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Yes, know what you mean... I still remember one North Sea crossing, where all the forcasters were only sayning "breeze", but all of them were also predicting different wind directions. England, scotland, denmark, norway... all different directions..
We ended up with a hurricane and 9m high waves. It was rather exciting, especially since we were about to win the race over to scotland... but when our 37 foot yacht started to break up, we luckilly had a sensible captain who ordered turning arount to go with the wind back to norway.
as an afterthought, we discovered that we were winning by far, and if we had continued, we would either have sunk or won. two other boats similar to ours went down, but luckilly all the crew was saved by emergency personell from the oil rigs. We never regretted turning around.
It was tough when we were in the middle of it, and definitely an experience to value.
Marius (Escort Cab + 2CV)
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#148771 - 24/03/2003 12:24
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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totally forgot to address your question about pigment. no milky white as far as I can see. I've tried mixing pigments to get different colors... that doesn't work so great. Here is a list of tints available, it's the first thing on the page. I currently have Yellow, Blue and Red....
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148772 - 24/03/2003 17:30
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Ok so I'm going to try my hand at making buttons for my self, but I'm not an "artist" so it might end up being a good laugh for me. 
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148773 - 24/03/2003 20:16
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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old hand
Registered: 15/07/2002
Posts: 828
Loc: Texas, USA
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If you can find a custom jewelry shop that does lost wax casting, they should have an investment table like this table which is very good for what you are trying to do.
If you're just looking for a pump, link. It's not cheap but it works very well.
Also if you get a decent mold, I would be interested in couple sets of buttons cast in jeweler's wax. I can get them cast in metal from there.
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#148774 - 24/03/2003 21:09
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Ummm should the LED's be on at like the lowest level when the Empeg is in standby (note they are set to full when playing and are completely off if I set the level to off).
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148775 - 25/03/2003 03:48
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 15/08/2000
Posts: 4859
Loc: New Jersey, USA
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Yes. You can change that behavior with a buttonled_off option in config.ini. See the FAQ.
_________________________
Paul Grzelak
200GB with 48MB RAM, Illuminated Buttons and Digital Outputs
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#148776 - 25/03/2003 17:10
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: pgrzelak]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Shazbot! busted for laziness too.
Sorry I should have looked.
Thanks though for the info.
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148777 - 25/03/2003 19:46
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Well I have to say that even without buttons to go with my new lights it still looks sweet, and makes a sort-of cool blue ring around the knob.
Is the transistor number MMBT390DICT-ND (Digikey) been added to the parts list yet?
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148778 - 26/03/2003 08:43
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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journeyman
Registered: 16/02/2000
Posts: 94
Loc: UK - NE Wales
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Got a picture? This sounds pretty cool without the translucent buttons!
Cheers
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#148780 - 26/03/2003 17:11
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: FlibblE]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Sorry no, I wish I had a digital camera to take some, else I have to wait and pay to get pictures developed.
Hopefully soon I'll buy a digital camera.
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148781 - 28/03/2003 15:05
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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addict
Registered: 27/12/2001
Posts: 504
Loc: Lummi Island, WA
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So what do you think the ETA is going to be on these LED installs?
I'm ready now; chomping at the bit, as it were. As soon as you say go, I'm there.
Not trying to hurry you of course, I know youre busy with your fingers in many other pies.
I've already been waiting over a year for Brian's kit, so I can wait a bit longer.
I was just curious.
_________________________
...all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.
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#148782 - 28/03/2003 15:11
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: fusto]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Mmm.. Good question.
Now that at least one other BBS member is working on making the translucent buttons for us, I don't think I'll proceed with the pinhole version.
But I am still ready and willing to do the LED installs, including the SINGLE knob LED as shown in photographs elsewhere in this thread.
If anyone wants that done, the procedure is to remove the displayboard from your player, package it carefully, and send it to me. I'll get the parts, install/test them, and send it back to you via the shipping method of your choice.
For now, don't do anything, but I would like an idea as to how many others want me to do this for them. I'm in Canada, so shipping is either slow, or more expensive than you may be used to. But if you have more than one player, a week or two of down time isn't such a big deal. I can turn these around in a day or so from receipt.
And.. aw, shucks.. maybe I'll wander down to the shop and drill out some buttons, epoxy them again, and see how they look. Monday. I'm out of town this weekend.
Cheers
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#148783 - 28/03/2003 15:18
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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enthusiast
Registered: 15/02/2002
Posts: 314
Loc: New Hampshire, USA
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What a guy!
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Doug
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#148784 - 28/03/2003 15:34
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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addict
Registered: 27/12/2001
Posts: 504
Loc: Lummi Island, WA
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Actually, thats all I was looking for. I have the New Face with translucent buttons on order, so all I really need is the LED's soldered on.
Ready when you are!
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...all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.
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#148785 - 28/03/2003 15:59
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: fusto]
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enthusiast
Registered: 15/02/2002
Posts: 314
Loc: New Hampshire, USA
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Can we get some pics of the new face? I always like to see them in their "natural" setting.
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Doug
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#148786 - 28/03/2003 16:00
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: phi144]
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addict
Registered: 27/12/2001
Posts: 504
Loc: Lummi Island, WA
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Sure! As soon as its in my hot little hands, Ill break out the digital and post a few.
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...all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.
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#148787 - 28/03/2003 16:48
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: fusto]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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>all I really need is the LED's soldered on.
Okay, email me then and we'll set it up. I have one set of LEDs on hand here for this -- they were destined for one of my own players, but that can wait -- the other two already have them.
Next time I reorder docking connectors, I'll also get some more LEDs. I have eight of the resistor packs and single resistors (for knob) on hand already.
Cheers
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#148788 - 28/03/2003 18:07
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: phi144]
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addict
Registered: 27/10/2002
Posts: 568
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Can we get some pics of the new face? I always like to see them in their "natural" setting.
You have seen this thread, haven't you??
Stig
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#148789 - 28/03/2003 19:52
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: StigOE]
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enthusiast
Registered: 15/02/2002
Posts: 314
Loc: New Hampshire, USA
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I have seen it. Thanks. I like the pictures in different settings.
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Doug
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#148790 - 28/03/2003 20:20
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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So lopan how are your buttons coming along, mine suck really bad so far I keep getting millions of tiny bubbles at the surface it's looking like I'll need a miracle or a set from you .
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148791 - 28/03/2003 20:26
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 20/12/1999
Posts: 31600
Loc: Seattle, WA
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I keep getting millions of tiny bubbles at the surface I never worked with the casting stuff when I worked at the jewelry store, but I seem to recall there being some kind of a spray involved... sort of like Pam for the mold or something. I could be wrong... It's been years...
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#148792 - 29/03/2003 01:41
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Ok so now most all the bubbles are gone, cool, but now I realize the mold is crap too. Looks like I'll just need to get better at making the mold.
 Did I just see the devil in an arctic jacket? Naw must be all the fumes.
"Today was a bad day to stop sniffing glue..."
Ok ok so I'm really really tired.
Night anyone that might be up still.
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148793 - 29/03/2003 12:27
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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journeyman
Registered: 16/02/2000
Posts: 94
Loc: UK - NE Wales
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Not to worry, I'll just have to get off my butt and do it myself! Incredible to think there's another person on this BBS without a digital camera
Cheers.
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#148794 - 29/03/2003 13:54
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: FlibblE]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Yeah I just can't justify getting the one I'd want to buy, considering I can't justify $300 for an "ok" digital camera.
Oh and a side note I finally did it after all this time and energy I did it. I fininaly, with out a doubt, irrefutably have proved that I am the must inapt human on the face of the earth when it comes to arts and crafts stuff.
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148795 - 29/03/2003 18:02
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: phi144]
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addict
Registered: 16/08/1999
Posts: 453
Loc: NRW, Germany
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I drilled pinholes in my buttons quite a few months ago and posted the pics here
and here.
aw heck, here's the pics:
There is also a pic of one of Tim's NewFaces on my empeg with lit buttons here
_________________________
(list 6284, Mk1 S/N 00299 4GB blue [sold]. Mk2 S/N 080000094 20GB blue)
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#148796 - 29/03/2003 19:12
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: Derek]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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You need a knob-LED with that new faceplate!
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#148797 - 29/03/2003 19:23
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: Derek]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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So can the knob on the NewFace be lit up too?
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148798 - 29/03/2003 19:57
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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I believe I have seen a photo of one lit up, elsewhere on the BBS.
Cheers
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#148799 - 29/03/2003 20:16
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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So lopan how are your buttons coming along
Got my vacuum pump... ran out of my trial size of plastic... ordered a gallon of the stuff (this time longer setting, figured it might help in degassing if I didn't have to worry about it setting up in my container)... Have some spray mold release I might try... so if I can get the bubbles out I should be able to start doing something with this within the next two weeks.
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148800 - 29/03/2003 21:13
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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addict
Registered: 27/10/2002
Posts: 568
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So can the knob on the NewFace be lit up too?
Yup. Attached is a picture of my NewFaced Empeg with lit NewKnob (crap picture though...) This is with a 4-led board (homemade using Brian's pictures).
Stig
Attachments
149773-NewFace_dark2.jpg (266 downloads)
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#148801 - 29/03/2003 21:33
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Cool, thats good to hear. You using resin or epoxy? And I still will buy a set from you just send me a PM when you're ready.
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148802 - 30/03/2003 07:46
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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smoothcast 327 resin...
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148804 - 30/03/2003 16:30
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: tfabris]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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well, I have it, mostly use it to seperate my molds, never really thought about using it for the buttons. The silicone mold material I use doesn't stick at all to the buttons, and only a few freak occurences have produced buttons with the bubbles on the surface they've all been internal. But hey, I'll give it a shot what the hell right?
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148805 - 31/03/2003 19:01
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: FlibblE]
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member
Registered: 07/02/2002
Posts: 193
Loc: New Richmond, WI
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Ok Pics of my mods
 
This show two things, one the blue ring around the button that's kewl the other is the light on all the innards I dislike that, but the camera doesn't show it all that well.
I have an idea that will will defuse the light and block it from showing the innards.
_________________________
Drive fast, Play it loud!!!
20GB Original Blue Lens MKIIa Rio SN 030102760, Blue Buttons.
20GB Original Green Lens MKIIa Rio SN 040103268 Grey Buttons.
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#148806 - 01/04/2003 07:33
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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member
Registered: 08/04/2002
Posts: 105
Loc: Charlotte, NC
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Put electrical tape on the back of the lens. You won't see the internals - just make sure not to cover up the IR thingie.
_________________________
10+40 Gig Mk2a... with Tuner. S/N 040103784 || 2001 Jeep TJ, 60th Anniversary Edition
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#148807 - 01/04/2003 08:31
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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Nice job on the knob board btw....
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148808 - 01/04/2003 10:28
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: JrFaust]
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journeyman
Registered: 16/02/2000
Posts: 94
Loc: UK - NE Wales
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Wow, I like it. Thanks for taking the time out to get a picture. A 'magic-marker' style mod would do for the diffuse light, I reckon.
I think I'm gonna have to give it a go, break out the Maplins catalogue!
Cheers.
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#148809 - 01/04/2003 11:36
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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addict
Registered: 16/08/1999
Posts: 453
Loc: NRW, Germany
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True, but since I gave the faceplate back to Tim after we tried it out and I don't have any pinholes in my knob yet it isn't a lot of use. One day when I finally get a little free time ...
_________________________
(list 6284, Mk1 S/N 00299 4GB blue [sold]. Mk2 S/N 080000094 20GB blue)
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#148810 - 02/04/2003 00:26
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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journeyman
Registered: 18/08/1999
Posts: 90
Loc: Scottsdale, AZ USA
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I'm in. I placed an order for Hulksters kit over six months ago and have received nothing - and I get no response to my emails.
Cheers,
=-C
_________________________
______________________________________
Queue 351,
Mk I, 30GB
Mk II #60000022 80gb, Blue - docked
Mk2a, 80GB, Bruface, lighted buttons and dial
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#148811 - 04/04/2003 07:20
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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DIRTY DIRTY DIRTY LITTLE BUBBLES ARRRRRGGGGG!!!!!!!!!!
Got my new longer setting plastic, vacuum pump, got a vacuum chamber set up, used mold release. Got everything set up, pulled a lot of bubbles out of the mix during degassing. Poured the plastics.... waited 2 hours.... and there they were... those little fricking bubbles, the bubbles that won't go away (not as many but they are still there)....
Not sure what to do, I've got a crapload of money invested in this button producing endevour now... and I honestly can't sell them and feel good about it until I can get the bubbles out.
Smoothon technical support said it might have something to do with humidity but I'm doing this stuff in the dryest place in my house... So I'm wondering if this might be regional? That would suck... have one more idea that I'm going to try tonight, which is shake well before using (as printed in the smoothon instructions), measure both parts out... then let it sit (the chemicals involved are very low viscosity, supposedly degassing isn't required) for a long time, then mix, degass and pour.... we'll see...
If this doesn't work I might have some button molds to sell
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148813 - 04/04/2003 10:21
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: justinlarsen]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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well I would... but I just ordered a new digital camera to replace the one I broke in ireland, so kind of shorthanded on the monitary side of things but I will be able to post a better picture of the buttons soon.
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148814 - 04/04/2003 10:40
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: justinlarsen]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 29/08/2000
Posts: 14496
Loc: Canada
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Huh? What exactly is that "Air-Dryr Dehumidifier" supposed to accomplish, other than recirculating humid air (which a basic fan would also accomplish)?
Cheers
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#148815 - 04/04/2003 10:44
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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Carpal Tunnel
Registered: 08/02/2002
Posts: 3411
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What about in-mold degassing?
_________________________
Mk2a 60GB Blue. Serial 030102962
sig.mp3: File Format not Valid.
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#148816 - 04/04/2003 11:09
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: mlord]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 25/12/2000
Posts: 16706
Loc: Raleigh, NC US
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What exactly is that "Air-Dryr Dehumidifier" supposed to accomplish It's really just a low-level heater. I't intended to keep air warm enough to keep water dissolved in it (is that the right term?), rather than condensing and causing surface dampness. It's intended for boats and other dank places. It certainly wouldn't reduce humidity, but it would reduce relative humidity. Probably not what's required here and wouldn't do anything useful at all.
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Bitt Faulk
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#148817 - 05/04/2003 23:01
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: genixia]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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What about in-mold degassing?
Just tried that tonight.... bubbles... still, granted cut down just a tad but enough that when they glow, you can see em... I seriously want to help people here with some buttons but damn this is becoming very... very frustrating. I remember talking to Brian he used the exact same materials and never had any issues with bubbles. He mentioned he lived in a less damp climate then I do, I still don't know if thats really the issue but I took classes on molding and casting in college!! I honestly can't think of anything else?
this really blows
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148818 - 06/04/2003 06:00
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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carpal tunnel
Registered: 15/08/2000
Posts: 4859
Loc: New Jersey, USA
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Greetings!
How bad are the bubbles? Depending on size / location / distribution, they might give a neat effect when backlit by the LEDs.
_________________________
Paul Grzelak
200GB with 48MB RAM, Illuminated Buttons and Digital Outputs
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#148819 - 06/04/2003 07:47
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: pgrzelak]
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old hand
Registered: 30/07/2000
Posts: 879
Loc: Germany (Ruhrgebiet)
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Hi Paul.
I thought along the same lines, and would really be _very_ interested to see images of his latest tries.
cu,
sven
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proud owner of MkII 40GB & MkIIa 60GB both lit by God and HiJacked by Lord
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#148820 - 06/04/2003 07:56
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: smu]
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old hand
Registered: 28/01/2002
Posts: 970
Loc: Manassas VA
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I'll post a picture, I ordered this camera, and should be receiving it this week sometime (does anyone know if this is a decent camera, it got good reviews?) But the effect is just a few small black spots in the button... Not really anything cool like "tiny imperfections so you know they were handblown by peasants" or anything like that
_________________________
Brett
60Gb MK2a with Led's
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#148821 - 07/04/2003 01:31
Re: Backlit "pinhole" buttons, anyone?
[Re: lopan]
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enthusiast
Registered: 28/03/2002
Posts: 230
Loc: Dudley, UK
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Geez, must be frustrating as hell being so close, don't falter now
Have just read the smooth-cast 327 datasheet and sure enough it does mention working in a warm environment and also that moisture may be problematic (but mainly with shelf-life rather than properties)
So, taking that to its limit,.... I know you haven't got a huge amount of time before this stuff starts curing but you could pre-heat the resin and hardener components before you mix (this will reduce the viscosity even more allowing easier de-gassing and also address any moisture issues).
Start off with a 10 to 20 degree centigrade increase and see if your working time is acceptable and of course whether it makes any difference. Also may be worth heating the mould and mixing vessel to match the resin temperature as well as working in a >25 deg C environment.
Anyway, good luck. Sim
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