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00:00:00 – 00:14:45
In this video, the presenter chronicles the intricate process of transforming a damaged Sony Walkman from eBay into a modern mobile phone accessory that reduces the need for multiple accompanying gadgets while traveling. They begin by discussing the condition of the Walkman and its historical significance, before outlining their goal to integrate modern components into it. Various components including wireless earphones, a wireless transmitter, an HDMI adapter, and battery packs were utilized. The build involved steps like disassembling the original and newly purchased devices, resizing and fitting new parts, and creating custom 3D-printed housings and caddies to securely hold these components together. Throughout the process, challenges such as fitting components within the limited space, soldering connections on the PCB, and ensuring all parts functioned appropriately were addressed meticulously. The transformation was completed by finalizing the assembly, aligning connectors, and ensuring the device's reliability and functionality. The project not only highlighted the retrofitting ingenuity but also served as an enjoyable repurposing venture, which the creator encourages viewers to try with due caution.
00:00:00
In this segment, the presenter discusses the process of retro-modding a damaged Sony Walkman purchased from eBay to make it a modern mobile phone companion. They highlight the original condition of the Walkman, mentioning it was bashed and well-used. The goal is to transform the Walkman into a device that can reduce the need for multiple phone accessories like chargers and cables while traveling. They also provide a brief history of the Sony Walkman, noting its debut in 1979 and its high-quality, low-cost reputation. The presenter explains the initial challenge of fitting new components into the original structure of the Walkman.
00:03:00
In this part of the video, the creator discusses the components they purchased and the initial steps of their build. They bought a cheap wireless earphone set and a wireless transmitter from Amazon, along with an HDMI adapter for connecting to phones. The first task was to disassemble the wireless earphones using a flathead screwdriver and an iFixit kit tool.
Next, they attempted to disassemble a battery power bank, finding it tougher than expected and resorting to a Dremel tool for safety reasons. After carefully cutting the housing to avoid short circuits or fires, they wrapped the components in insulation. Realizing that the batteries wouldn’t fit inside the Walkman, they opted for a slimmer 5000mAh battery and a new power PCB board. They desoldered unnecessary USB ports, wired the necessary components, and connected the wireless transmitter and USB-C connector for power.
Finally, they tested the setup by connecting it to the mains to ensure it charged the battery properly and began addressing the display component, which had fallen off the PCB.
00:06:00
In this part of the video, the creator discusses their process of soldering a connection on a PCB and designing a caddy to house the PCB components. They used extra strong PLA for 3D printing the caddy, which provided good print quality. They test-fitted the earphones and display inside the caddy and arranged all components to check the fit within a Walkman. Components were hot glued in place, including the display, and some wires had to be resoldered and reinforced with heat shrink to avoid short circuits. The creator then powered on the setup to ensure everything worked before continuing. Buttons were carefully reattached and hot glued to maintain the original look of the Walkman.
00:09:00
In this part of the video, the focus is on the final assembly of the components inside the Walkman. The creator ensures that all parts, including the USB and HDMI connectors, align correctly and function properly. They discuss the challenges faced with fitting the components, such as having to repeatedly cut away excess material to create proper clearance for the headphones. The caddy’s fitment issues were addressed by making a slider and a housing for the battery, which is attached to the belt clip on the back of the Walkman. A push button was added to the PCB board to turn the battery on. These new parts were sent to a 3D printer; though affected by the dry conditions, they were generally successful. The cad files for these parts are made available for free on Thingiverse. The creator expresses satisfaction with the Sony logo on the caddy, emphasizing its aesthetic contribution to the Walkman’s design.
00:12:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses modifying a Sony Walkman by integrating modern technology components. They extended the battery wires using a heat gun and soldering iron, ensuring no short circuits. The battery holder was attached to the back of the Walkman using the original belt clip’s threaded hole. A slider and caddy were installed for accessing earphones, HDMI cables, and power connectors.
Additionally, a wireless transmitter was glued on top of the HDMI PCB for wireless phone charging. The creator carefully drilled a hole for a push button, aligned with the PCB using calipers. The final steps included gluing the front cover using double-sided tape and hot glue, and retesting all electrical connections to ensure proper charging, video output, and wireless functionalities. The creator highlights the project as a unique and enjoyable way to repurpose a Walkman for use with modern mobile phones and encourages viewers to try it, emphasizing caution with the battery.