First VV mod build

[chrisrook]

So, started gathering supplies for my first mod build, which is going to be a VV mod. Been working with circuits since I was like 11 (so 12 years), so I feel comfortable with it. Anyway, it's going to be a copper body powered by 2 18350 batteries. Unfortunately, I accidentally ordered 2 18650 batteries. So, i'm going to try and make a sleeve for it that allows me to switch to single 18650 while 18350's are charging, or may go all out and make a sleeve that allows me to use dual 18650's, who knows. On the way is a 510 connector, 50k pot, batteries (both 18350 and 18650) chargers, a NCP630A, and a 510 screw in volt meter. Would have gone with a basic LCD volt meter, but Madvapes was sold out.

Started work on a few components including the negative terminal spring and the positive terminal post, which is made out of a brass 10-32 machine screw and matching nut insulated against a washer that will be shaved down for a snog fit into 3/4" L size copper tube. All that is needed now is the switch and 10k resistors. Also, all the stuff to get in so I can start cutting tubing and fitting parts.

 

[TomCatt]

When starting to mod, eBay is your friend . The typical DIY voltmeter that some ecig vendors sell can be bought on eBay for 1/2 to 1/3 the cost (+ 2-3 weeks ship time).

You might want to look into the OKR-T regulators (http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/modding-forum/191607-easy-okr-t-vv-mod.html).


Good luck on your build!

 

[Innocuous]

Personally, I think a Puck makes a nice First Mod.

Following that success:
- the OKR-mod is just easy-peasy, (although I'm now on a Vamo as my Okr box has decided on is always fire ;-)
- the LM2596-mod I had worked great until I munged a leg on the chip
- the PTN04050 mods look really nice

I do want to eventually try a PIC-based mod, too..

(and then we have the DNA modules ;-)

 

[chrisrook]

Thanks for the vote of encouragement guys! Saw the TI after I ordered the NCP regulator. This is mainly just my entrance into the world of VV mods, i'm pretty sure i'll make more in the coming years, as well as tweak designs and figure out what works for me and what doesn't. Eventually i'd like to build a switch powered VV with built in ohm meter so as not to have to check each atty and rebuild with a ohm meter. Laziness is the mother of invention, that makes you put in more work.

 

[Paradisevap]

Theres a number of good ones to use, and many many ways to use them

 

[DrMA]

How about a DNA 20D by Evolv?

 

[chrisrook]

Until Innocuous mentioned DNA, I had never heard of them. Just looked at the board, so much want now. Will most likely go into my next mod.

 

[TomCatt]

Unless you vape at high watts, the DNA 12 (12 watts max) should be good for a start; plus they are a bit cheaper and usually in stock
Our Products « Evolv

 

[chrisrook]

Parts are in! Well, everything but batteries. Every e-mail said tomorrow at the earliest, so it's all here early! Still need to stop by Radio Shack for resistors and a new switch (bought to small of a switch), but other than that I can start building, and should be done by tonight! So, look for pictures tonight if all goes well.

Oh, forgot to mention that the potentiometer isn't in. Those are coming from China and will be here later this month, so I might pick up a giant pot from RS just for use until the small one comes in.

Also, phoenix clone came with it, so time to have fun with that!

Update: Body about complete. Need to add positive post, drill body for vent holes, and solder up atty connection. Unfortunaetly, I was stupid and misplaced the grommet for the 510 connector. So, looks like i'm ordering some new connectors. Full mod without voltage meter is 122mm, voltage meter is at least another inch or so, then you add on atty and it'll probably reach the 180mm mark. Can't wait to get it done!

 

[Paradisevap]

you can use the insulator out of a old atty or carto

 

[chrisrook]

I don't have any dead ones. I baby my batteries and switch them out sometimes. Does anyone know if disposables have the grommet, or is the atty just soldered to the battery wires?

 

[chrisrook]

Bump for update. Need to get around to drilling the vent holes, which may no long be necessary with a set up I have decided to change to. Found this: Lavatube PCB Step Down 3 6V Variable Voltage Module Printed Circuit Board | eBay, and realized that it was exactly what I was looking for. So, gonna order one up soon, and throw it in. Copper Lavatube, here I come! Now I just need to study the PCB to make sure I wire it up right.