2. Electronics assembly

In this section, you'll go over the steps necessary to build a complete electronics assembly for the Ploopy Trackball.

Step 1: Get the necessary tools

• A soldering iron
• Solder

Step 2: 3D-printed parts

• PCB anchor

If you don't the capability to print the 3D-printed parts, then it's no big deal. We sell them, but we also have information on how to print them out yourself, if you've got access to a 3D printer. See Appendix B: 3D-printed parts for information.

Step 3: Prepare the electronics assembly jig

The jig will be used to hold the PCBs together at precisely the correct angle during the soldering process.

Step 4: Prepare the necessary parts

• Base PCB with all components soldered
• Vertical PCB with all components soldered

If you don't have a base and vertical PCB, have no fear. We sell them, but we've also got the information necessary for you to make your own. See Appendix A: Printed circuit boards for information.

Step 4: Attach the PCB anchor to the base PCB

DO NOT USE GLUE. This has the possibility of affecting alignment in later steps.

Step 5: Attach the vertical PCB to the PCB anchor

• Again, DO NOT USE GLUE.
• Make sure that the PCBs are seated fully and completely against the PCB anchor.

Step 6: Insert the PCBs into the electronics assembly jig

Make sure that the electronics assembly is seated fully in the assembly jig. This step is crucial; misalignment during this stage will virtually guarantee that the buttons will not function.

Step 7: Solder the pads of the base PCB and vertical PCB

• Set the soldering iron's temperature to much higher than normal, as the pads are large and shed heat quickly, and cold solder joints here will result in poor electrical connections
• Apply the right amount of solder to ensure a good connection and good mechanical strength, but not too much that it makes it easy to form cold joints

Step 8: Remove the completed electronics assembly from the assembly jig

This may require a bit of force. The electronics assembly is fairly strong, but don't impart unnecessary force onto the assembly.

Step 9: All done!

Congrats, you finished assembling the electronics! Pat yourself on the back.

When you're ready, proceed to 3. Enclosure assembly to continue.