Exchange tips and tricks for the Akai MPC4000
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By Horseclick Wed Jan 13, 2016 4:57 pm
francks,

if you need help funding the project kcikstarter is the way to go,

if you can produce a easy to install kit , i'll buy a assembled kit, but if too hard will you offer a install service for extra cost?

Thanks
By Genesis92 Wed Jan 13, 2016 5:04 pm
I'm in France so it will be difficult to offer an install service xD
the best way is to sell the kit to someone with electronic skill and able to do it near the end user.
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By Horseclick Wed Jan 13, 2016 5:50 pm
just wanted to get this straight will you be selling built units or in kit form so end user will diy the kit and then install?


will you will be assembling one of your kits and taking pictures for a step by step guide for others who will be constructing there own also,

if so would you sell me the assembled version and i can then try to fit myself?


Thanks
By Genesis92 Wed Jan 13, 2016 6:19 pm
I think the best way will be to sell the assembled version. except for the connectors because they must be removed and reused from the CFL inverter.
but I think to be able to find the right connector model from RS or farnell.
the problem is the shipping. it's very expensive to US (when it's not lost by our postal service)
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By Horseclick Wed Jan 13, 2016 6:41 pm
Great i want a assembled version,

im from london so its not too expensive,

perhaps its best to try and source and provide all connectors so users can simply swap the cfl for the new led one
By Genesis92 Mon Jan 25, 2016 6:28 pm
Hello :)
a little update.
I've sent the PCBs on production. (10 pcs)
I have modified the schematic to be more compatible withe the original CFL inverter (5-12V input and remote + brightness remote control) but for use with the MPC4000 nothing is changed. The unused components are not populated and the copper jumpers are in the right default position.
I've added thermal drain on the bottom side of the led strip for the leds heat and a thinner shape

the inverter "updated"
Image

the led strip "updated"
Image

and the panels ready to be sent to the PCB manufacturer.
Image

Image

I need a beta tester, Horseclick you are not too far. Do you want to test a (free) hand assembled prototype?
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By Horseclick Wed Jan 27, 2016 7:51 pm
Hi francks,

i can test for you no problem, pm me and i'll send you my details.

what exactly do you need for me to do?

i will spread the word among my mpc friends also to hopefully sellout your current batch, provided a dummy can install it and we get a nicer backlight we should be good to go.

in the mean time once you recieve the boards if you can document/write up the stages i need to preform i will follow the guide/write up and report back on my findings and if i had any difficulties so that anyone else wanting to do the same on there mpc will have a good idea of whats needed.


my diy skill is about 10%, i open my mpc's to clean and maintain/upgrade(ram, etc) but i have not done any advanced stuff like soldering etc...

so that should provide others with my skill level also.
By Genesis92 Thu Jan 28, 2016 7:04 am
don't worry, I will assemble the module for you.
I've added the same connectors as the original one on the PCB and I think to find the mating connector on the output side to avoid to cut the CFL tube cable to use it with the leds.
I have made a lot of pictures when I've replaced the mine and I think to have enough to make a little installation guide.
the more complex part is to dissassemble the CFL backlight but if you are paying attention it's not a problem :)