Re: Before I embed a DS10A, any tips...?

["JW" <jweb@xxxxxxxxxx>]

WOW, I thought I was a gadget freak.   Sorry if I missed it but, why are you
doing all this?  If it is to alert you that the door has opened, why not use
this:  http://www.smarthome.com/7466.html
My wife bought one for me a couple of years ago and it works great.   Joe


"Jack Edin" <nospam@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:3J-dnewRppWMn7veRVn-hA@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> Hello gang!
>
> Mister Houston...
>
> ;-)
>
> Anybody...?
>
> I've cut open the door of my new plastic mailbox...
>
> http://www.step2.com/images/products/540300_popup.jpg
>
> I'm about to mount an X10 Security DS10A Door/Window sensor within.
>
> http://www.x10.com/products/x10_ds10a.htm
>
> I took the DS10A apart, and promptly discarded the plastic. It'll work
> without the slider switch, reporting MIN...
>
> I also dissected the reed switch...
>
> Now I plan to solder the switch to it's old wires...
>
> Mount the PCB within the door, and the reed switch near the top center, on
> the door's inside. The manufacturer thoughtfully provided a magnet on the
> stationary mailbox part.
>
> Then all I'll need is a battery holder for 2 AA cells. Radio Shack's
> 270-408 has wires, and a cover. And it is black - like the door...
>
> http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=270-408
>
> I'll likely cut a hole on the door's inside and mount the battery holder
> within.
>
> Now to seal it back up...?
>
> Well the handle has 3 screws to keep it together, and there is one at the
> top for a metal plate - makes 4 screws. So it'll be held together well. I
> never cut the bottom.
>
> The seam I had to cut, all around the edge will need to be resealed. I'm
> thinking an ultrasonic welder would be nice!
>
> Lacking this I expect silicone will be get 'er done.
>
> My question...
>
> Before I seal this up (forever), is there anything I oughta do?
>
> Can I improve it's antenna, Dave? Do tell...
>
> ;-)
>
> Thanks!
>
> Jack
> :)