A Few Questions Before I Order

[dw75]

I'm about to order some stuff to start my first mod and I just wanted to run a few questions by you guys.

I'm going to do a box mod build with the Vamo chip from FT. I plan on running 2 18650's in parallel.

1. batteries

ICR should be okay with this mod, right? Or do I need IMR? Possibly LiPo? I'm trying to go for a large battery life.

2. Switch

Most of the switches (metal) I've seen are rated for 2 amps. But that would be too low, right? So,I'd need a 5 amp switch, right? And if I choose to relocate the +/- buttons, those don't draw any current so I could just use regular tactile switches?

3. Hot Glue vs Epoxy

The only real difference here is if I want to be able to remove the components at some time, right?

I know I'm asking a lot of newbie questions but that's because I are one. But with the FDA looming, being able to improvise is a pretty desirable skill. Thanks for your help, guys!

 

[chefjoosie]

1: ICR should be fine, but these days there are good options for IMR that I think are better options. They are calling them hybrids. ( I guess since they have high drain and high capacity) Look into the Sony v5s or the Panasonic 18650PFs. 2 of either of these in parallel will give you plenty of life with a Vamo board. LiPo packs are nice, but are really best only if you plan on having onboard charging.

2:a 2 amp switch won't give you any problems. I've used 500mA switches with no issues whatsoever. I mostly use 3 amp switches just in case. My only advice would be, if you use low amp rated switches, don't epoxy them down, so you can replace them if they die on you in a year. As far as the + - switches, you can use about anything. Tact switches are great for that.

3: It's all about preference. epoxy takes a bit longer to apply, Is harder, and more durable, and heat is not an issue with it.
Hot glue goes down really quick, is cheap, and if something breaks down the road you can cut things apart and replace broken components. But isn't as stiff/sturdy, and if used directly on the atomizer connection, could heat enough to melt.

 

[dw75]

Awesome! Thanks for the help.

 

[JohnnyDill]

I used Harbor Freight 90 second epoxy with great results. You can squeeze out a small amount and mix it up as you go.
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-oz-instant-setting-super-adhesive-epoxy-96034.html

I built a dual 18650 Vamo box and use AW IMR 2000mah batts. It lasts over 4 days for me before I have to plug it in for charging.

For me, the fire switch was about choosing one that has a comfortable feel and a light spring pressure. Hope this helps and good luck!

 

[dw75]

Johnny is the bottom chip for charging? I'm still trying to decide on a case. The most available that I've seen is the Hammond 1590b, but that just seems too big.

And your 510 connection…is that a top cap from another mod?

 

[JohnnyDill]

Johnny is the bottom chip for charging? I'm still trying to decide on a case. The most available that I've seen is the Hammond 1590b, but that just seems too big.

And your 510 connection…is that a top cap from another mod?

Yes, the bottom chip is for charging. This build is a variation of Mamu's Arlo DNA mod. My 510 is a MadVapes connection pressed into a top cap I made on a lathe. Here is the build thread. There is info in there regarding how I made this work with a Vamo PCB.
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/battery-mods/538730-arlo-dual-18650-dna20-30-step-step-how.html