Detailing the Top Array of Graphics

The viewscreen electronics

The viewscreen electronics

Well another long hiatus over. I’ve actually been working on this, just haven’t posted any updates, so here ya go! So next up was getting the electronics installed. I started with the top array, and carefully got the electronics in place. I found the electronics would not sit flush against the inside of the body, so I opted to drill holes in the top if the tricorder to allow the LEDs to poke through. I then went back in and pushed the LEDs into place, and while I held them steady with a pair of tweezers, I applied some low temperature hot glue to secure them. I then attached the “On” indicator LED by affixing the LEDs to the inside of the tricorder using a spot of super glue. I then went around the LEDs with a bead of hot glue for added support. Next, I attached the display screen LEDs to the dome piece I foiled in an earlier step. Again, I used some glue to attach the board to the dome. I also used a file to make some recesses in the dome for the wires.

Detailing the graphics

Detailing the graphics

Next up was detailing the top array graphics. I used the original set of graphics as a template on where to place the gold leaf detailing. I also did a rough alignment on the tricorder and found I needed to remove some material from around the red LEDs, so I used a sharp hobby knife to scrape away some of the decal’s material.

Applying the colored gels

Applying the colored gels

Lastly, I applied the blue and orange gel sheets that were included in my graphics upgrade to the top of the tricorder. Again, I used a set of tweezers and an edged-stick. Next up, I’ll be applying the top array graphics and securing the last bit of electronics. Almost done…