Gauging interest in chest lights

Howdy all!

Most of you know, I don't like to post looking to make a sale ... I'm pretty much a no-pressure kind of salesperson. However, I've had 3 or 4 people ask about getting a set of my chest lights, and have run into two problems:

1) I'm out of circuit boards.
2) One of the parts I use in my design is now obsolete. I can get some still, but they cost me more thabn twice as much as I used to pay, and a suitable replacement hasn't turned-up yet (otherwise, I'd re-design my circuit to accomodate it).

So, with that said, I'm looking to see how many people are interested in purchasing a set of chest lights in the near future. I'm only looking for those with a serious interest, as I can't afford to front too much money and have parts sitting in the garage right now. As I said, my parts cost has gone up a bit; however, I'm looking at selling these at the existing price, $80 + shipping. This is the same circuit I've been selling for about 6 years now, and with my current situation in acquiring parts, it may be time to wrap it up.

So, if anyone is interested in buying a chest light set within the next month or so, e-mail me and I'll add you to the list. If you have any questions, feel free to post here or e-mail me off-board.

Thanks,


ATM
ShackMan
wild_wire@yahoo.com

What are the dimensions of your lights? I'm sure it's been brought up before, but different armor makers have slightly different slot measurements.
Just wanted to know if these lights would be compatible with my armor.

I don't have chest armor (or a set of lights) handy ... could one of you with my lights post up some dimensions, please?

Thanks,


ATM
ShackMan

Yep I'm interested, I'd like to see some photos if someone could please post them.

the top is the shackman set, the bottom the tk409. my gear is packed away at the moment so i can't measure it, but the mouse should at least provide a sense of scale.

the numbers are slightly bigger than the tk409 one. i'd have to cut an extra 1/16th or so around the edge of that slot to make them all line up right. i still haven't done that, but it still looks fine... i just lose a teeny bit of 1 number.

i love mine. the 2 part design of the board makes it easier to install without pushing out the armor at an odd angle.

also note that i modified mine a bit... i extended the battery wires by about 14", so that i could have the battery in one of my belt pouches.

Thanks Brian.

Hope you enjoyed your green lollipop

I'm interested in a set of these - what will the shipping cost to the UK though?

I already have a set, but I am seriously tempted on getting one just for the thought that you might be stopping all together.

hey Shackman

i'm seriously interested. just have a simple red light in my chest armour at the moment. It is the one detail that I really want for my suit.

J

I'm interested in a set also!

The lights are set up to fit just the same as the TK409 lights. They fit MLC, FP and BM armor.

im interested in one possibly 2 sets. Put me down on the list please. thanks

Thanks for the interest guys! Again, I'm not looking to push sales, just want it known that my parts are getting harder to source, so I'm looking to do a bulk order (and since I'm out of circuit boards, this all falls in together as a possible last run ... or at least long time between waits).

I'll keep the list going through Monday or Tuesday, and will count up reuired parts then.

Thanks again to all,


ATM
ShackMan

I'm very interested as well. Just wondering, does anyone have a video clip of these actually working. Would just like to see them in action. Thanks.

Sign me up as well.
I could always use another set just in case.

Originally Posted by BFett25

Just wondering, does anyone have a video clip of these actually working. Would just like to see them in action.

Here it is: http://www.thedentedhelmet.com/bbt/I...estdisplay.avi
Wouldn't load for me. So you might have to right click and Save As.

Originally Posted by deadbolt
Here it is: http://www.thedentedhelmet.com/bbt/I...estdisplay.avi
Wouldn't load for me. So you might have to right click and Save As.

Thanks DeadBolt, but it's not working for me either.

I would like a set also.
Thanks,

Im so in . Add me too.

Always nice to have a spare-put me down for a set please

Thanks Deadbolt! Very nice!

Woah ... haven't been on in a day or two (sorry guys). Just want to note that the piece in the video clip was the prototype; my final design, as sold for years, has a nice connector/cable system.

With that said, I've complied a list of those interested. I know, this isn't a list of those "committed" ... so I'll be ordering the boards to cover this many, and only parts enough to do a batch at first. Then, as I receive payment, I'll order the remaining parts.

Thanks again to all who posted (or PM'ed). Looks like my lights still draw some interest after all this time ... and like I'll be busy for the next month or so.


ATM
ShackMan

I also have to add my 2 cents...

Anyone wanting to make an accurate Boba Fett Costume this is THE Electronics set to buy!!!

Don't Miss out on this chance to buy now!!

I was fortunate to get a set from someone here on The Dented Helmet and was Amazed when it arrived, I cant wait to install the Electronics into my Armor (eventually when I create my own set ) for now I just plug them in and watch in amazement!!

(I hope you don't mind me posting this Animation...)

1 set here, e-mail sent.

I just sent an e-mail as well. I'd like a set if there's still room on the list.

- Justin

Shackman.. wondering if I can still jump on board.. let me know ..pm sent...jjv5150

How did I miss this thread? PM sent.

Count me in too... definitely interested in getting this from you.

Robert

Yikes! The list has grown MUCH larger than I expected it to. I was hoping for more than just the 3 or 4 people I initially had, but y'all are going to keep me busy for a couple of weeks at this rate. I kept the list "unofficially" open due to trouble getting the one part. If I couldn't get the part, the whole run would be shut down. But not to worry ... I'll be making the lights in order of request (meaning you got in early, you get an early set pending payment of course). No jumping in line ... :P

Now, here's an update: The piece that's getting scarce, and is hard to find these days ... a fellow member of this group (who will remain nameless unless I get his permission to give it) has helped me source a decent quantity of them. Does this mean I have enough to keep production of the lights going indefinitely? No ... there aren't THAT many of them, so I'm still glad to be doing this as a run. But it does mean that I'll have enough to account for everyone currently on my list. With that said, I'm waiting until the parts are on their way to me, so I *know* we can move forward, before taking payment from anyone. Once this is confirmed, I'll ask for payment to truly get the ball rolling.

I've replied to all PMs, so if I missed anyone, let me know.

Thanks again,


ATM
ShackMan

Great news.

Will you PM people on your list as and when payment is required?

Just incase some of us miss the post.

Will do.


ATM
ShackMan

shackman..PM sent..thanks for the reply..jjv5150

pm sent if still available...

Sorry Bro...

I don't know how I missed this thread??
...but like i told ya at C4, I'm in for a set..

Hi, still havent received a reply to my interest early on in the thread. Is this still on?

I´m interested. Set me on the LIST!

SHACKMAN?!?!?!?! Glad to see you around again.

For everyone, this is all I have to say: THE ULTIMATE chest display, hands down. :thumbup Not trashing anyone else's job, but for the money, that's worth the sacrifice.

I still have mine for the past 4 years, and currently upgrading armor....but I will NEVER sell that set of electronics with the old armor.

Way happy, and too many good compliments about it through the years, that I've decided to keep it...this eventually will become a COLLECTOR'S ITEM in the Fett costuming community in the near future, and almost became one until HE showed up again for this thread.

Feel free to get one of these....THIS is the opportunity, don't waste time, and get one of these! Sorry for the shameless plug, but this is the guy you want for the job, and honest true.....a job WELL done.

Shackman... I'm in for a set.
So load me onto the list buddy...

Robert, long time no see. But thanks for the kind words ... glad you still like them after all this time.

OK, just a short update, which is that I don't have much to report just yet. The parts are on the way here ... so I'll hold off *just* a bit longer before taking any payments. We're almost there! And once I request payments, I'll be cracking on these as quick as I can, so the wait won't be TOO long.

Oh, and if you posted on here about being added to the list, you're on. I'll be capping it off when I request payment.

Thanks again,


ATM
ShackMan

WOO HOO!!

Thanks for the update!

Originally Posted by shackman

Robert, long time no see. But thanks for the kind words ... glad you still like them after all this time.

OK, just a short update, which is that I don't have much to report just yet. The parts are on the way here ... so I'll hold off *just* a bit longer before taking any payments. We're almost there! And once I request payments, I'll be cracking on these as quick as I can, so the wait won't be TOO long.

Oh, and if you posted on here about being added to the list, you're on. I'll be capping it off when I request payment.

Thanks again,


ATM
ShackMan

Hi Shackman,

PM sent!

I've already PM'ed but I just wanted to be sure to post on here as well just in case. I'm down for a set. Thanks again Shackman!

OK guys, the time is finally here (yes, finally)!

The good and bad news: Bad news is that I'm going to have to ask for an extra dollar more than before. I hate to raise it at all, which is why I'm not asking for much more; but in the past 6 years I've never increased the price for account for higher shipping, or PayPal fees (didn't have any when I started). However, shipping HAS gone up, and PayPal will dock me over $100 for this run alone. So for the U.S. and Canada, the price INCLUDING shipping will be $86. For overseas, let's just make it $87 ... if shipping's a bit more, I'll absorb the difference.

The good news ... I fronted the money to order the circuit boards and get most of the parts, and am ready to get started (just waiting on a few more parts, due in the next few days). So once I receive some of the payments and the last parts, this run will begin quickly.

So, at your earliest convenience, if everyone who posted to be on the list could send payment in either of these forms:

PayPal to wild_wire @ yahoo.com (no spaces of course)
MO to my home address, which I'll give out at request.

Thanks again,


ATM
ShackMan

P.S. I'll be PM'ing individuals after I give everyone a day or two to see the post, as I said I would. I just thought this would be a quick way to reach a lot of members.

Shackman, paypal sent. Let me know if you need anything else.

Thanks,
Michael

Payment sent!

Hi Shackman, payment sent.

I've sent $90 for overseas shipment to the UK as I don't think its fair to ask you to take a hit on what you're charging!!

Looking forward to receiving the lights,

Cheers,
Pauly

Payment sent
Thanks,

PMs and e-mails replied to, thanks for the quick payment guys, as well as shipping cost/concerns.

I'll get back with everyone as updates are available ... just waiting on the last few parts to arrive (any day now), and payments to be received.

Thanks again,


ATM
ShackMan

Chilean Base Need One!!!:thumbup

paypal and PM sent. thanks in advance. bert

Payment and PM set.

Hi again Shackman. Thanks for putting me on the list. Payment is sent.

Paypal sent... Thanks

Paypal sent.
Looking forward to getting it.
Thanks,
Falconfett

All PMS replied to, and I believe I've sent a "receive" notice to everyone who has sent payment. I've received a couple with no screen name in the PayPal info. If you would, please include your screen name in the PayPal info or on the MO, as this is how I put everyone on the list.

Thanks again,


ATM
ShackMan

Paypal sent!

Could you confim that you recieved my payment please.
Thanks,

Hmmm ... I seem to have run into a problem with some of my replies. I've replied to each person who has sent payment, some by PM, some by reply mail (replying to teh PayPal notice). Some of my mailed replies didn't seem to make it through; so if you haven't heard from me and wonder if I've received your payment, please PM me.

Yes, I have "Nobody" marked as Paid.

Thanks,


ATM
ShackMan

Thanks

Pm sent for payment.

Paypal sent!

PM sent about the "recieved notice"

All PMs replied to, thanks for keeping in-touch guys. Still waiting for the last batch of parts (new supplier for me). Once they arrive, these will get underway quickly. Still waiting on payment from several members, so those that have paid will be taken care of in short time.

Thanks,


ATM
ShackMan

PayPal Sent! Thanks allot!

-Carson

Paypal sent. Cheers Allen

All PMs replied to, and payments noted (still trying to sort out the last couple).

The only update I have for the moment is that the last box of parts still hasn't arrived, but is scheduled to be here between now and Monday. So boards will be cut and ready to pop parts into early this coming week, and the first batch of lights should be going out (pun intended) by the end of the week. Not sure how many the first "batch" will be ... we'llsee how late I can stay up each night.

Thanks all,


ATM
ShackMan

Hey,

Just wanted to give everyone an update, so you didn't think I forgot about you. I've started on the circuit boards, but haven't been able to get through with any yet because I'm STILL waiting on my last shipment of parts. The order was due here between last Friday and this past Monday; I've contacted the company, and am assured it's in-transit and should arrive within the next few days. So ...

As soon as the package of parts arrives, I can get busy finishing up the first sets and trucking on with the others. On that side note, about 1/2 of the people on the interest list changed their minds, so I'll have quite a few left if anyone else wants one.

Sorry for the delay, and thanks for the patience,


ATM
ShackMan

i could well be interested in a set of chest lights next month (ie September), just short on funds this month. If you can keep us all posted on the availability that would be greatly appreciated

Yeah like wise Jon... bit short this month Shackman but would be very intersted next month? if they are still available...

Not a problem guys, just keep an eye on this thread. I'll update the board as I complete sets (including whether or not I have any left, which shouldn't be a problem between now and next month).

Thanks,


ATM
ShackMan

Guys, if you're on the fence, hop off and BUY ONE OF THESE.

I bought one in June 2002 and have used it for 5 years now! I'm not talking about on a mannequin, either! I've done 10-20 events per year for 5 years with my garrison, so you can do the math.

My suit get a LOT of use. Shackman's chest light set is STILL going strong. I can't say the same for other lights on the market...

GREAT PRODUCT! Worth every penny and THEN some. I get questions and compliments EVERY time I do an event about my chest lights!

J

No sitting on fence FH... totally want one but am short of the moulah.. I too would recommend anyone one of these sets.

Thanks for the kind words fetthunter, glad you like them (still). Happy customers, that's what it's all about.


ATM
ShackMan

I'm interested as well, just making sure you still have the materials to do another.

BTW, how do you attach them to the armor? Glue/expoxy? Caulk? Also do you need to put tinting in front of them or are they stand-alone?

Thanks for all your work!

Scott

Had a little good luck with some funding... I'd like back on the interest list for a set of lights please....

Wesari: I believe most people put some sort of tint in front of the display. It hides the components, so all you see are the lights shining through. As for mounting them, I've heard of people using various methods from hot glue, tape, or other creative methods ... I don't think there's a "right" way to do it, as long as you don't short any of the electronic traces.

Mojo-Fett: Done, and PM'ed ya back.

Update for everyone - I received the final box of parts! I've begun working on the first batch of lights, and will (hopefully) have them ready to send out on Monday, since I work the next few days (12-hour shifts suck when trying to get anything else done). More updates when ready ...

Shackman, could you please post the order of people in the first batch.

Thanks,

Hi Shackman,

Any progress mate?

Hey bud, dont forget about me. I need some of your LED magic for my new kick butt display!!!! When ever your ready I got your paypal waiting.

OK, here's an update:

1) Parts are in! I actually received them late last week, and have begun "production". I'm hoping to have the first few ready to go out in the next day or two.

2) I'd rather not post the list of buyers, but will say (as to the requesting member) your lights will be probably another week. One reason for not posting the list is member privacy (mine and buyers) ... the other is that my list needs to be cleaned up (I haven't deleted "interested" members names, just marked the ones that paid).

As mentioned before, I'll try to get the lights shipped out by order of payment ... so those who sent money in early won't have to wait much longer.

Thanks,


ATM
ShackMan

Yay!

Thanks dude!

Just wanted to touch base with y'all and give one more update for the week. I work (12-hr days) the next few days, so I'll be on here very little, if at all.

Here's a taste of the troubles that have popped up:

1) Everyone knows about the delay in shipping; problem is now resolved, and all parts are on-hand.

2) The rectangular LEDs have too wide a lip around the base. Not a problem ... just means I have to clip this piece of each of them (and there are 20 on EACH set of lights).

3) The software I use to program my micros (MPLAB) is saying my programmer needs a newer version of firmware. I've used it only once this year, but it worked fine then. I haven't changed anything, so I'm not sure what's causing this firmware upgrade request. Until I correct this problem, I can't burn the micros that run the lights. But as with all other problems, it's just a matter of time ... it'll get fixed.

So, as it stands right now, I have 9 sets of lights ready to go (short of programming the micros). I also have 3 more sets nearly done (stopped to work on the programmer).

So, does anyone have much experience with MPLAB?

I've contacted Microchip, and hope to have an answer by Monday (which is my next day to work on these). As soon as I can get the burner working, I'll have a handful of lights to ship out.

Thanks,


ATM
ShackMan

Paypal sent ShackMan as per PM...

Sorry to hear about all of the issues (but still waiting patiently).

I had to use a chip burner for burning firmware ROMs at my last job. I forget the software we used, but it was this old, DOS based thing that became increasingly hit-or-miss on newer computers (running XP). Even when it worked it was a pain to use.

At any rate, thanks for keeping us updated on the situation!

Latest update:

Bad news:

1) Still can't get the programmer working on my computer, and haven't heard ANYTHING back from Microchip.

2) I only had one confirmed class I could take this semester (that would transfer), and it was dropped due to lack of interest. This puts me ANOTHER semester behind schedule to graduate ...

Good news:

1) I built the kids a computer a few months back, and the programmer works FINE on it. So I now have enough micros burned for most of the circuits (more then I have assembled at this point).

2) The fact that I won't be taking that class frees up a little more time for me, so I should be able to get caught up in the near future.

3) I have about 10 - 12 sets of lights that should be ready to ship tomorrow. PLEASE do not e-mail or PM me asking if yours is going out; I am shipping them in order of payments received, and will contact each member when I ship his lights (so you'll know when to look for them as soon as I send it).

Thanks for all your patience, the end is near.


ATM
ShackMan

Yes! Thanks the update shackman!

Hooray!

Thanks for all of your hard work!

Thanks for the hard work

Thanks for the ... um, thanks guys.

Well, the first batch went out today. I've PM'ed everyone who should keep an eye out for them (next couple of days). I have 6 more sets almost done; if I don't get them done in time today, they will be shipping Tuesday (Monday's a holiday).

Thanks again,


ATM
ShackMan

Nice one...
Just to repeat everyone, thank you!

G

Hi Shackman, no PM for me!

For those of us still waiting could you give us a ballpark idea how long we might have to wait?

Thanks mate

Pauly

Pauly, I believe you're name is coming up in the next batch. As for how long you have to wait, I plan to ship some out on Tuesday, and the next batch after that will probably be early the following week (sooner if possible). Not sure how long shipping overseas takes though ...


ATM
ShackMan

Hey Shackman,

Got my lights today. They are awesome. Thanks for everything. They look great. I do not have my armor yet (BM is making it for me) so the lights will have to wait to be installed, but it's great to just sit there and watch it go!!

Hi Shackman, thanks for the response!

I'm guessing delivery will take about a week, I'm currently in the same position as Mdoug18217 - no armour yet, but I plan to make my own!! (Yikes!)

Couldn't take the chance of missing the boat on your lights though!!!

Cheers mate, will keep you updated when I take delivery!



Pauly

Got mine today, awesome! Thanks

Ooh...not long now

Nope, not long now.

Update: I sent out 5 more sets today, and have 6 more ALMOST ready to go ... just wasn't able to get them ready by close of business at the PO. So, there will be another batch ready to go early next week. For those that shipped out today, you've got PM!

I've been asked a couple of times about the "list", and as mentioend before, prefer not to give out names. But for anyone on the fence about buying a set ... maybe you were waiting until they were moving out?, here is a number: Of the people on my "interest" list, I had 22 people back-out (not that there's anything wrong with that, as there was no commitment). So if you're interested in a set, I have a few left. Of course, for anyone looking to get a set in the near future, I'd prefer to build them while I'm doing this run; once I stop making them, setting aside the time to do it is a chore in itself.

Thanks again, and more info when I have it!


ATM
ShackMan