ok so quick status update:

* microdesktop v1.7 pcb: done. can go to production * microdesktop case design: 2nd revision needs to be tested * laptop PCB1: PCB's made, at factory, needs assembly * laptop PCB2: PCB's made, at factory, needs assembly. * laptop PCB3: spotted a flaw, needs a 5V power regulator added plus a way to do dual-power. * laptop PCB4 (actually for a new design "All-in-one PC"), PCB's made, at factory, needs assembly * EOMA68-A20 revision 2.7.4: PCB's made, at factory, components being ordered, needs assembly. * 3D printer from taobao: totally rubbish. undergoing MAJOR redesign just to recover the parts. * Anycubic 3D printer from aliexpress: works okay, max print speed 50mm/sec, it's "doing the job" * Research into new design of 3D printer started: http://reprap.org/wiki/Riki200 * EOMA68-iMX7 started with vincent: files to be handed over soon.

i think that's most things. most of it is "waiting". for the laptop PCBs it'll be a few more weeks, then i'll be able to test out the new Frida 2.8in LCD, see if that's good. i also still have to test the passthrough card and check its HDMI conversion before sending it out for a new revision.

designing a new 3D printer is a surprise but i feel it's essential. at least 10 3D printers need to be bought, and they need to be decent quality at a budget of around $USD 200 to 250. now if that means i have to design an actual 3D printing board to meet that budget then it's easily justifiable thanks to the numbers. i think what i will do is put the printer onto a crowdfunding campaign: if i'm making 10 already then if there's even one more person who wants one that's good enough.

one thing that's completely awesome and a drop-in upgrade: the Flex3Drive direct-drive adapter: https://flex3drive.com/product/flex3drive-direct-drive-adaptor/

this basically drops into place of a standard NEMA17 so is far far lighter in weight, then there's a flexible driveshaft on a 40:1 wormdrive so the motor is static. you get the best of both bowden *and* direct drive, *without* the disadvantages of either, *and* a far higher gear ratio, in one fell swoop. totally awesome and a real simple decision to adopt.

l.

--- crowd-funded eco-conscious hardware: https://www.crowdsupply.com/eoma68