Td-Free PCB Purchased FAQ

You've purchased a Td-Free PCB!

Congrats for that! But there might be some questions regarding the packaging:

Unbox

Why the reused anti-static bag?

Good question. That has two reasons:
1. Reducing waste: Instead of packaging it into a new bag, I can just reuse the one I already would have thrown out anyway.
2. I don't have to buy a new one. I can just use the one I already have and thus reducing trash and costs.

What's the beige part above the cables?

Beige 3d-printed protector glued onto PCB to protect solder joints

It's to make sure the cables don't break in shipping. But this isn't any ordinary plastic part: You can compost it! Don't throw it into your trash, throw it in your garden! For real! If you say now that PLA doesn't desinegrade under these conditions, rest assured, this plastic is PHA which is truly compostable!

Get Started

Print your case

Now that your PCB is unpacked, print your case! All of the files can be found over at Printables! Print them in the corresponding color (black and any color you like)!

Assembly

1. Insert the LED module

3d printed case with LED module inserted firmly and pressed down

Insert the LED module as you can see in the picture. Make sure it sits mostly flush and press it down, but don't press on the yellow plastics as tis coating has a tendency to break. But don't worry, touching is completely fine, just not pushing on it.

Tip: You can click on any image to view it in fullscreen!

2. Insert the filament guide

Same case as before, now with a black filament channel inserted on top of the LED

Insert your filament guide as seen in the picture. Make sure it sits flush, so a bit of force may be required. Also make sure that the hole is above the LED module. if not, try to turn it around.

3. Insert the sensor protector

Now, one more black piece with a rectangular cutout is on to of the filament channel

Insert the sensor protector and make sure it sits flush again. Here again, orientation matters: The cutout should be centered above the LED module and the cutout below, just like you can see in the image.

4. Slide the PCB in at an angle

PCB now inserted at an angle into case

Slide the PCB in so that the USB-C connector is inserted completely. For now, keep it like that!

5. Cable management

PCB now inserted at an angle into case PCB now inserted at an angle into case

This step is important! Make sure the cables are routed as seen in the pictures! If that's done, press the PCB down.

6. Put the lid on

Final assembled white 3d printed case with lid on

The lid can only fit one way, so that should be hard to screw up. Now you're done and you can proceed with the first power up. Read on below.

Get started