Install Strip into Ring

The 3D printed ring will help the NeoPixel strip stay in place. The strip of NeoPixels is fitted inside the ring and wraps around with the LEDs facing inwards.

Slit for Wiring

The wiring is fitted through a slit so it doesn’t get kinked when installing the acrylic.

Hot Glue Strip to Ring

Dabs of hot glue can help attach the strip of NeoPixels to the ring. This keeps the strip nicely secured so it stays in place.

Installed Strip

Double check the strip of NeoPixels is nice and flush with the 3D printed ring. If you're using a different strip of NeoPixels, your LED count will be different.

Test Strip

Make sure to test out the strip of NeoPixels to ensure everything is still working properly.

Clean Acrylic

It’s a good idea to wipe down the acrylic before installing them into the case. You can use a micro fiber cloth or wet wipes for glasses. Paper towel with alcohol works OK too (careful not to get fibers on the acrylic).

Install Acrylic Top

Grab one of the acrylic discs and begin to fit it into the top cover with the mirrored side facing inwards.

Install Ring to Top

The ring of NeoPixels can then be fitted inside the top cover. Make sure the wire is lined up and going through with the slit. Push the 3D printed ring all the way down so it's flush up against the acrylic disc.

Install Bottom Acrylic

Place the second piece of acrylic on top of the 3D printed ring. Press down so it's flush. Double check and make sure the wiring from the NeoPixel strip isn't being kinked.

Test Mirror Strip

With the two acrylic discs now in place, it's a good idea to power on the circuit to test out the effect. If there's any smudges, fingerprints or dust, you should be able to see it right away. If the effect doesn't look as expected, try flipping the acrylic discs.

Pass Circuit Through Frame

Grab the 3d printed frame and start to pass the electronics through. The side with the lip should be facing the acrylic disc.

Snap Fit Frame to Top

These two parts snap fits together and have pretty tight tolerances. Make sure the frame is lined up properly with the top cover. Reference the photo for the correct placement.

Check Wiring

Double check to make sure the wiring from the strip of NeoPixels is passing through the slits across the top cover and frame.

Install ItsyBitsy

The ItsyBitsy can then be snap fitted into the bottom cover. Tabs on the side will keep it in place.

Install Lipo Backpack

The Lipo backpack also press fits and the slide switch is installed into a little holder.

Install Switch

Insert the body of the switch at an angle and firmly press down to snap fit it into place.

Connect Battery

With the parts in place the battery can then be connected and tacked down with double-sticky tape or mounting tack.

Install Bottom Cover

The bottom cover can now be snap fitted into the frame with the openings lined up. Firmly press the two parts together to snap fit them shut.

Installed Bottom

The bottom cover should clamp into the frame. Make sure the port holes are properly lined up.

Test Build

Turn it on and try it out!  My final build has a few tiny scratches and small air bubbles, but overall a decent finish. 

This guide was first published on Jan 21, 2020. It was last updated on Jan 21, 2020.

This page (Case Assembly) was last updated on Jan 21, 2020.

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