Introduction: Plastic Bag Sealer "Simple" LED-mod (w/ Life Lesson Questions)
I haven't done electrical work in some time, but I thought this would be an easy project for my roommate's Xmas gift. However, a .25 of the way through, I realized it was much more than I bargained for, BUT I knew if I could stick it out to the end, it could work out.
//And with struggles, we all know what we get- Life Lessons. (and Cue Questions from me to set yourself up better for the future)
Tools:
- Dremmel (Cutting Disc + w/e gets the job done safely)
- Soldering Iron
- Kitchen Scissors
- Super Glue
- Rubber Duck (for sanity check)
Materials:
- Bag Sealer http://www.wish.com/c/558e3d57d7d9214be5b093d6
- LED
- Resistor (for LED and proper form)
- Momentary Push Button
- Wire
Step 1: Cut Out Round for LED
Simple, right?
(Used the Dremmel cutting disc)
Step 2: Wait...I Just Understood This Circuit..it's Stupid
So technically, it's always on....
I thought the spring action push button in the back activated it...it doesn't.
Step 3: Take a Cue From Programming => Rubber Ducking!
I talked it through with a Rubber Duck like it was person, explaining my processes.
I decided to put a Momentary Push Button on the "button" itself.
Step 4: Go Hard in the Paint (If You're Going for It, GO for IT)
I cut the rounded section off the original "button" with the Dremmel cutting disc.
Yes, I did cut slots so the leads on the MPB can fit through (also fixed it up some more with the ball nose attachment).
Yes, I am using pliers with a hair tie as my soldering stand.
//I cut the battery connector strip with the scissors and soldered on the wires.
Step 5: Made Progress But Also Some More Mistakes :)
I soldered the LED's polarities incorrectly- it was the 2nd one already.
Hey, it's hard when it's Christmas Day, there's a lot of tools and work crap all over your room, and you've also been super busy writing songs and editing videos.
//I'll be cleaning everything up after I write this!
I soldered the wires to MPB incorrectly.
I was wondering why the LED stayed on... heheh
Step 6: *Do* W/ Integrated Lessons
Had an old LED from a previous project with a resistor soldered on already; I was way too tired, in too deep and a little woozy from huffing all the solder smoke at this point.
//Pier 9 has vents right?
Soldered the wire to the proper connection and tested :)
Step 7: Test, Test, Test!
//Pictures speak for themselves
Step 8: Wrap Up (Potential for a Pun)
I'm waiting for the spray paint to dry on the box it came in as we speak.
In retrospect:
I could have cut a little more depth off original "button", but upon listening to my intuition, I decided to leave it as it is.
Major (Re)Lessons:
1. Understand the circuity (the situation) AMAP (As Much As Possible) prior to starting
=> What is the situation in front of me?
2. Keep track to test better
=> Do I know all my leads?
3. Quit while you're ahead
=> *Place hand over chest* Does it feel worth it for me to continue?
Hope you enjoyed this odd yet fun hack
Happy LoveMore! ❤️
Participated in the
Make it Glow Contest 2016