Lab Work Archives

Lab Work – Perhaps, the best way to show ‘work’ or work in progress; in most cases, the purpose is to highlight the struggle to find a solution, the test effort and the learning that takes place when fixing stuff. Or another way to share various phases of the problem solving process – hypothesize: test, learn and apply.

July 10, 2021September 21, 2024

1fyr Bootstrap

Versioning Update, 1Fyr.com

1fyr Bootstrap v3

Lab Work – 1Fyr

**UPDATED** 1FYR.com – 1Fyr TWBSv3 Update

It’s time, time to update the version for 1Fyr, 1Fyr Bootstrap v3. Like many things in this world, it was time for a tune up, we are moving 1fyr.com to Bootstrap v3. So, what does that mean?

Tune up includes, code clean up, the removal of any deprecated elements, code and/or elements no longer being supported moving forward. WP jargon went out with the ‘bath water’ as did some of the bloat. V3 added a framework of sorts, adding Bootstrap framework to this site. With the code change, we’ve made some website improvements: show/hide div’s on the latest fire, archived videos presented in a more favorable fashion and the Jumbotron…

While the yard is being worked on per say, (2 months now) the fire concept has been put on ice to say the least. Again, which aloud me to refocus on the site, code tweaks and more. We kept it simple using TWBS v3. Once we get the backyard up and running again, we will post videos…

While we wait, or in the meantime. For the sake of historical reference and ultimately, how we got here. More information can be found here, about campfires and family time on 1fyr.com. Or, you can stay here, and read about the 1Fyr build and/or 1Fyr updates.

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

July 10, 2021September 24, 2024

Calc Rework

Let’s Get A Fix In Place For This Calculator

Calc Rework, Fix, Rework and Repair

Calculator Work, Fixing the old calculator

Lab Work – Fix the Calc, Calc Rework

Broken Calculator, Let’s fix it. Don’t want to keep this little piggy waiting!

Calc rework started a few months ago. We’ll keep this post short and brief… This calculator showed up on the work bench with minor issues. Connections all busted, it looks like an animal, a vacuum, nature or something was able to get to the calculator and internals.

Anyway, after fixing a few connections and installing a new CR battery, this little piggy is like new again! Easy work, no major issues with the main board, keys, case or display. Quick fix.

Calculator Fix

Resolder

Look Here

Lastly, I decided to keep little ‘piglet’ sticker on the old calculator because it gives it a new look. It’s a great office calculator with big keys and a large display, making it easier to use than those tiny digital smartphone keys. I reminds me of the old Printing Calculators, kind of like this Sharp Printing Calc. It brings back memories of my parents having used one around the house when I was a child. If you enjoy reading repair articles, consider learning more about robots, remotes, drones, and computers. Wiring guides like this ADT Touch Screen quick reference, keep this handy for future needs, power outages or battery replacement. Or, you might be interested in the Nano Whisk Fix, the M1 MBP Repair, or the latest Dolphin Pool Robot Fix. Feel free to leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts!

June 15, 2021September 27, 2024

iRobot Roomba 900 Series Teardown

iRobot Refurb Process

iRobot Roomba 900 Series Teardown

Lab Work – iRobot Back At It

Got a broken robot? We can help! Some might say that’s the worst, but fear not – the iRobot – 900 Series is here to save the day.

Let’s start by fixing this thing with an iRobot Roomba 900 Series Teardown. The great thing about iRobot/Roomba products is that they are easy to fix! Unless the board is fried, the main housing is smashed, or the plastics are destroyed. Even in those cases, parts are fairly easy to find. The key is to source, clean, install, and maintain what you have. Most, if not all, of this particular Roomba was fine. A good cleaning at the end of the repair was worth its weight in gold.

Robot Teardown and Repair

Teardown

Battery

Cleaning Bars

Bin

Repaired

Test Run

For those of you who don’t regularly electronics, robots etc. weekly, monthly or ‘NEVER’… friendly reminder, whatever the electronic device may be, they do yeoman’s work if you take care of them after every one or two uses. Additionally, the more you maintain them, the less you will have to throw. Remember, no pain, no gain.

A few tools to mention below, reiterating the previous comment, these are fairly simple to fix… for now. Learn the art of robot care, become a ROOMBA master sensei. This is a huge advantage for iRobot:

iRobot Home App
Philips Screwdriver (Rechargeable Drill* DeWalt 20v)
iRobot – Brushes, collector rollers, caster wheel and filter
Cleaner – Windex
Cleaner – Sprayway
Compressed Air

Links, Conclusion and More Repairs

In closing, I’d like to share some other articles, more recent articles on robot repair, 3D printer upgrades RC (radio controlled) and robot repairs, check out these articles.

Moreover, let’s look at a Bench Power Supply – Matrix Bench Supply, the need to power on electronics when the damaged robot or device is on the bench in pieces. Next, and one of my favorites, the Maytronics Dolphin On repair, explore water intrusion and effects of water intrusion, water damage and power unit swap. How about the Ender Direct Drive Upgrades – TPU Post Processing Update, a 5 part series on filament types, application of filaments, upgrades, troubleshooting and more.

Final link, check out the EMAX TinyHawk Repairs… more fixing, soldering, and flying. There are more articles in the TinyHawk series, approximately 6 or 7. Be sure to check those out, as well as the iRobot series continues. More recent work, but it helps tie in ‘process’ and troubleshooting unknown errors and testing. As usual, please leave a comment below and let us know what you’re thinking!

June 3, 2021September 27, 2024

iPad Mini4 – Screen Swap

iPad Mini4, Let’s Replace the Screen and Digitizer

Digitizer Screen Swap

Lab Work – Digitizer Replaced

iPad 4 Mini – Digitizer Swap

Take a peek under the hood and check out the iPad Mini4 – Screen Swap timeline. From start to finish, it only takes a quick 20-30 minutes to complete. Just remember to remove the power flex connector before the screen/digitizer flex connections. We have included a followup picture in the timeline that demonstrates the recommended tools and method for removing those flex connections. Additionally, when dealing with the button assembly housing and home button, be sure to handle them with precision and care. Taking care of the button and its connections will make a significant difference in the long run.

Packing Tape
Heating Element – Water Based, or Heat Gun
Pryor triangles
Suction Cup/Pry Clamps
Tech Screwdriver set
Curved Tweezers
Pressurized Air
Anti-static Wipes

iPad Screen Repair

Tap Screen

Heating Glue

Start Removal

Shim Screen

Unscrew Shield

Gain Access

Digitizer Connector

Digitizer Cracked

Let us know your thoughts on the moderate difficulty of The iPad Mini4 – Screen Swap if you are knowledgeable in this area. More Apple tear downs and repairs, like this Late ’18 MBP Battery Swap or M1 Chip Touchbar swap. There are more, like this Mini 4 digitizer repair, which takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. If you encounter any problems, Apple Self Services options are available, as well as Apple Parts – https://selfservicerepair.com/en-US/home – case you encounter any difficulties or obstacles. Feel free to reach out to us, as we are more than happy to assist you!

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

May 6, 2021September 27, 2024

Late MBP Battery Swap

Check out the Late MBP Battery Swap and Repair

MBP 15″ Swap

Lab Work – Late MBP Battery Swap

The teardown and do the Late MBP Battery Swap Repair

Let’s get it! Before we begin, below are photos of the repair process. We are working on a 2013 MacBook Pro “15 Retina laptop with a new battery. Please ensure that you have selected the correct replacement parts, preferably OEM battery parts.

Find The Right OEM Parts, Find Primary and Secondary Parts

First, it is recommended to use OEM Parts, and even a second-hand OEM battery may be a better choice than non-OEM part in this case. OEM parts can be purchased from various websites such as eBay, Apple Parts, Apple Self Service Website, and iFixIt. When performing the repair, it is important to be cautious and take your time. Power and grounding are crucial, so be careful not to energize parts once the case has been unscrewed and removed. Additionally, it is helpful to have a few other items on hand for the repair.

Tools and Repair Kit for the Late MBP Battery Swap

Some other tools to have around the shop might include the Jakemy screwdriver kit, which contains Torx, hex and star bits. These are key for newer technology bolts and screws used in the assembly process or to hold hardware to the board. Additionally, it’s important to have glue tech adhesives and glue release, gloves, safety glasses, and a welding/soldering mat. These are all useful bare minimum tools to have, including glue release, a tech screwdriver set, and glue adhesive.

Jakemy – Tool Kit 99 Tool Kit
IFixit Tool Kit – www.ifixit.com/Store/Tools/Repair-Business-Toolkit/IF145-278?o=14
Tech Tool – Cutting Mat
Ground Wristband
Electronic glue, glue adhesive release
Focal Fossa – 20.04 – Ubuntu
MacOS Snow Leopard

MBP Swap

Late MBP Battery Swap - Macbook Pro Battery Replacement Unscrew, Pull-back battery cover, Pop-off Battery Connection

MBP Unscrew

Battery

Remove Glue

Macbook Pro Battery Replacement - Un-glue Battery process clean up

Glue Remover

Late MBP Battery Swap - Macbook Pro Battery Replacement

Remove Battery

Swap, Replace Battery

Ubuntu

Apple Certification, Apple MacBook and Robot Repairs

At this point, I’ll assume you are interested in repairs and may want to learn more? Equally as important are the OEM parts as the knowledge to do the repair yourself, intelligibly. Are you searching for parts for your own device? For more detailed information on the Late MBP Battery Swap and the power on and boot process. Check out IOS certification Apple Certs. Lastly, have a look at this particular MacBook Pro “15 Retina tear-down via IFixit MacBook Pro “15 Retina Late ’13 Tear Down.

In conclusion, more tear-downs and repairs, check out the iPad Mini Fix, Roomba 900 Series Fix or some of our latest MBP Screen & Keys and MBP Touch bar fix. Enjoy! As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

April 20, 2021September 27, 2024

1FYR Update

Updates, Website Moves and Outdoor Fun

1Fyr.com And More

Lab Work – 1FYR Update And Other Work

Update: The move to Bootstrap V3… in coming soon. Stay tuned for that. But for now, back to the test case, SOLVER. Let’s get you up to speed…

(<< REWIND) We were exploring ways to play around with our cameras, light/exposure, and enhance our film during dusk. Dusk, after twilight, is being the most challenging time. You might not know, but some of the best light is during twilight . The sunset light here on the coast offers dramatic colors, landscapes, shapes, and textures to capture in images or videos. Texture refers to the subtle and stark contrasts of color. (>> FF) Our experiments continue as we have some fun along the way. Campfire, music, food… what more could you want?

As you will see, fires can be unpredictable, especially at dusk. We enjoy the process of building, stoking, enjoying and extinguishing a fire every month or so. We cook up some burgers, grilled sandwiches, hotdogs, and s’mores if we’re lucky. And there you have it – INTERNET CONTENT!

1Fyr Updates

Fire At Sunset

Islane Fire

S’Mores Time

I’d like to see us get to a point where we can post more videos, more often, weather permitting. Anyhow, the goal of this test was to capture and correct lighting affects. We use Adobe Premiere (Not A Sponsor) and share with you via the interwebs. We’ll post some Premiere content in next quarter or so. That might make some good content as the video/editing process is hit or miss as a noob. You know the sunlight, sun angle, twilight and how/what device captured the subject; meaning what device or camera was used to capture said subject. 1FYR Update, we chose fire, of course. A caveat, (loophole) we don’t see snow here in the South… Snow can be fun to film. All too often I forget/fail to mention the rainy season as well. Pre/post rain storms can create dramatics, drama that’s what we need! Before I move onto the subject of this post (yes, side tangent…) Don’t forget to check out 1fyr.com.

The next test case will include steel, torches and welders, yet to be purchased… Still trying to iron out what that might look like on ‘film’. But we have a few contenders to start, need to fix the campfire tool set. Specifically the shovel has all but worn through its welds and sits in two. The campfire brush is worn out to say the least, adding that to the refresh pile. The campfire grilling surface (an old repurposed baking rack) might need a little attention as well. There are more, but hopefully we’ve captured your attention.

Lastly, we will probably review some gear, welders, torches, protective clothing etc etc. Leaving you with a cliff hanger of sorts. More to come…

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

January 30, 2021September 27, 2024

ReFit EMAX FC

Cut, Fit & Refit

EMAX THS & Flight Controller Board

Lab Work – EMAX Flight Controller

ReFit EMAX FC

I thought we could revisit the EMAX FC repair on the EMAX THS. I’ve want to follow up on the previous post, focusing more on the specific, showing the repair process and refitting the EMAX FC. Along the way, I’ll share additional photos of the process as well (in case you come across this article and are in a similar situation with a failing FC). Let’s cover the entire process from start to finish – disassembly process, cutting soldering, and test flight. Once again, soldering/replacing the EMAX AIO FC. Enjoy the photos.

Drone Repair Photos

New Parts

THs

EMAX FC

Drone Frame

Add Connections

Reattach Power

Once you have all the parts, fitted, soldered and ready for flight, we will need to configure the FC. Rest, bind, configure and fly, in that order. Check out the EMAX FC and BetaFlight post for more information. You can also learn more about the repair, configuration process and in-flight troubleshooting. If you are having troubles, log into the EMAX Support Portal for assistance with your EMAX products. Lastly, I want to reiterate the steps to fix the FC – Support EMAX THS, remove EMAX FC screws from the Drone PC frame, Cut/Add Connection to Board, Re-Attach New Power Connector with the Battery Carrier”. Time has moved on since the original post, I wanted to share other Emax content where applicable. If you’re looking for Emax content, give these a shot (in reverse order from this postings date) – Emax Fix Part 1 and Part 2, Quadcopter Rewire, and the TinyHawk 2.

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

January 30, 2021September 27, 2024

EMAX FC and Betaflight

Update EMAX Flight Controller with BetaFlight

FIXED: EMAX & Configurators –

EMAX – Betaflight

Betaflight Config – Today, we (you and I) tackle some drone issues… make/model drone controller configs ((same drone, FRSKY controller profiles)), soldering/replacing EMAX AIO FC, and BETA config issues. Photos to follow.

In the meantime, sit back and relax, enjoy… enjoy the pain, the torment, cause I’ve been at this for days… Literally, days. Nothing but borrowed time; borrowed not wasted! Link above will get you your very own Betaflight configurator via Chrome extension.

FC And BetaFlight

Receiver/Modes

BetaFlight

PID Mode

BetaFlight Notes

Like most things, there are more ways to make your cake and eat it. The Chrome extension is helpful when bouncing back-and-forth between systems/releases/drones etc. I run Big Sur MacOS, Ubuntu Linux and a Win Server 7… it’s handy here, as the config remains the same, helps to maintain a certain sense of sanity. Especially when you’re a NOOB.

Two, from time to time, I run my Win7Server via MS Remote Desktop or Linux instance via Oracle’s Virtual Box. One advantage might be number of USB ports available… as you know, most MacBook Pros are limited to 3 of 4 USB-C ports. Unless you run usb ports, which I don’t care for (B.S. but that is for another day). Anyhow, regardless of how you run Betaflight, be aware of the nuances, versioning and pitfalls with each new iteration or release. T

ake notes, take screenshots, vlog about it… anything to help you remember the ‘deltas’ (change) over time. These will come in handy the next time you crash or repair your drones. Notes and support can be found here: Betaflight – Github Notes/Docs Moreover, issues came up when I swapped AIO boards, soldering power and reconfiguring modes. For more information, I posted more about the config, various configs like EmuFlight and BLHeli, look for 8/17/2020 post – Hack’r-A-Thon//

As usual leave a comment below, let us know what you’re thinking?

January 17, 2021September 17, 2024

1fyr

Check Out 1fyr.com

One Fire, Once A Month

Lab Work – 1Fyr, One Fire, Once A Month

One Fire, Once A Month

Web • TWBS3 Twitter Bootstrap V3 • CMS Content Management System • Business/Marketing Analytics • Hosting • Webmail • SEO Search Engine Optimization – Google Analytic

Family and friends, come and enjoy the outdoors; 1Fyr.com! We are currently waiting for new content as our resources have run dry for the moment. This (means we do not have a ‘fire pit’ to film, produce and publish fires regularly, or at least once a month. Therefore, the monthly fire concept is on hold for now. However, you can still visit the website @ 1fry.com. WE will continue to post updates, or 1Fyr update(s), as they become available. We are hopeful for more content to come in the near future. Stay tuned for new updates!

December 22, 2020September 21, 2024

Star Wars Repost

The Star Wars Repost Journey

Star Wars Repost 9 Movie Collection

Lab Work – Repost

REPOST – Star Wars Repost

I wanted to repost this content a while back, but didn’t work out as I had expected. While cleaning up some old files, we stumbled upon our AppleTV receipt for the StarWars Boxset (9 Movie Set) on Apple Movies – Star Wars 9 Movie Collection. This prompted the need to repost. There are other box sets available, but I wanted to quickly touch on this one. Let’s get started, we rewatched the entire Star Wars Collection, and will be posting some images and a few words to highlight our experience with the movie collection.

StarWars Repost

Opening

Intro

Darth

Darth

Race

Assuming you have the time, may be some popcorn popping up in the microwave, it’s time to sit and watch the Star Wars Collection. Whether it’s for leisure or work, if you’re Start Wars fan and know more about the series than the average person, feel free to comment, provide feedback, or offer criticisms below. In fact, we found the Apple Collection on discount, along with other formats and discount codes out there that may help with the cost of the 9 movie Star Wars Collection.

Quickly before we run our of runway for the year, this post was reposted just before the holiday. Here are some other links which can be found under our recent projects forthcoming article posted a few days back which include Star Wars Box Set, Dogminer2, RPI4 Touch and tips on Google Analytics (GA).

Before you buy each movie individually, do you homework to help spread out some of the cost. The images below are not in any particular order, but we wanted to share some additional screenshots for your enjoyment. Anyway, enjoy! As always, leave a comment below and let us know what you’re thinking!