AirGradient Forum

T6 screws included to AirGradient Open Air kit

Hardware extensions
#1

In my eyes, the included four T6 screws make the assembly of AirGradient Open Air unnecessarily difficult: They are too long, whereas the screw driver’s handle is too small to put enough power to them to nevertheless make the encasing’s top and bottom parts be really safely fixed to each other.

The alternative shorter screws from a former video are no more included, and the soap mentioned in a later video may be only an emergency solution (I didn’t try).

I helped myself by using M2x10 mm screws. This size really works fine.

Additionally, now also the two shorter T6 screws for fixing the PCB are slightly too long after the formerly included plastic washers are missing currently. In this case, I added two metal washers myself which solved the problem.

Maybe the screws included to the kit could be optimized to reduce trouble.

2 Likes
#2

Whilst the case screws seemed a bit long, I think the length makes it easier to align the screw (It will often drop directly into the hole at the bottom of the opening). My general experience with small screws is that they can be harder to line up because they have a tendency to lay at an angle (this does depend on the width of the opening) meaning I have to use the screwdriver to try and get the screw upright above the hole - a magnetic tipped screwdriver makes this easier.

It is best to ignore the provided screwdriver as that will only allow a couple of turns before it becomes difficult. Use a proper quality screwdriver if possible (everyone should have a decent set of precision screwdrivers :slight_smile: ). This will give the necessary power for the screw to cut the thread in the case the first time it is inserted.

I’ve never used screws for the PCB. I think the first time I mislaid them or something. The PCB seems to slot in position and the case holds it tightly in place without them.

#3

I concur - ran into this issue a couple of times. Short of getting a separate tool with the correct head (and more ergonomic), I have “warmed” up the holes by screwing the screws in first without the PCB in place, then unscrewing and mounting the PCB as usual.

If the included screws could be replaced with ones with standard heads like Philips, that would help!

#4

No problem with either the stock screws or screwdriver here (though the driver IS a PITA, it does work), and the longer screws make it far, far harder to strip the holes.