Altoids Tin Speaker

Step 13: Final Assembly

Cut a piece of heavy cardboard (I use either pieces of picture framing mat board or cardboard beer coasters) to fit inside the bottom of the Altoids tin. The radius of the corners of and Altoids tin may be approximated by a quarter. This piece insulates the board from the metal tin. Note that in order for the 3.5 male-male audio cable to fit in the tin, this piece must not extend all the way to the right side of the tin. It should be sized to fit under the entire circuit board.

Insert and attach the audio jack and switch first. To do this, fold the speaker up and out of the way. Then slide the board into the tin and push the threaded portions of the audio jack and switch through their respective holes. Tighten.

Fold the speaker down into place. You will have to push the long sides of the tin out a bit to get the flange of the speaker to snap in place under the rolled edge of the tin. Slide the speaker all the way to the left. If it does not fit under the left-hand rolled edge, trim the two corners a bit more.

While the sides of the tin are still splayed out, slip the battery holder into place. Be careful not to abraid the leads. Note that the battery holder is positioned so that its red lead runs up the side next to the electronic components.

Straighten the sides of the tin and make sure that the flange of the speaker is seated underneath the rolled lip of the tin.

Add a battery, close up the tin, and enjoy!