The Magic-Flight Box

OF

OF

Well-Known Member
Mysterion999 said:
Thank you again for sharing your knowledge. Nothing's ever easy is it? Would you happen to have a build thread on your battery pack somewhere?

Do you know how the wiring from the box to the LB works? I'm pretty sure I have two that the electronics work, but it loses connection at the dummy battery.
Click to expand...

Yer welcome.

No, no specific instructions, but it's pretty simple. A three cell 18650 holder with the cells in series and a short cable with the female coax connector (center positive). You can see it in this photo (sorry, it won't post anymore.....). Gives about an hour heating IIRC. "A great plenty".

https://i.imgur.com/ChB3ycM.jpg

I've never had any trouble with my PAs, so never took one apart. Other guys report wire breaks where the cable connects to the adapter at the box end, which seems logical to me. Off hand my guess is the third wire is from the switch??? The PA needs to know when to light up......

OF
 
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Mysterion999

Well-Known Member
I was right, the switch did tap off the negative and runs back to the board in the box.

I took one of the dummy batteries apart and I honestly can only see one design flaw. It doesn't appear to have any broken wires. There is a white and black wire of heavier gauge, and a smaller gauge yellow wire. As a layman I would guess the black and white are the main power wires. The white is the pos. and runs directly to the center button of the battery. The black wire is soldered to the small board that mounts the switch, it goes through the switch and back to the main box. It also has solder globbed around the edge of the switch board which is the contact to the shell of the dummy battery via small tabs and pressure.

My board is burned along this soldered edge, and I believe this might be the problem. A simple solder joint here before mounting the endcap might have solved this problem.

Now that I know how to take it apart, I'll see if the same thing happened on any of the other ones.

Sorry for not being able to link direct pics, but I never signed up for another source after PB screwed everyone.

The burnt board.

https://www.amazon.com/photos/share/olukWXayWSmN4qVpTzvLXLj6jl1t9j4GfK4OCfbnyiz

The wiring.

https://www.amazon.com/photos/share/rWNUi9YB4Bwcbm32ENTLtzouorKCxYPbxWUDRdWyG6T

I wound up cutting through the endcap to get it off, I think it might slide off if I tap it lightly with a cresent wrench opened up just enough to fit over the battery shell and push against the endcap.
It would be nice if i found a simple fix for the 2.1. If I find any others with burns, I might just do this with the replacement that is coming as they said they won't be sending me any others. it can't hurt, right?

Update, I took another one apart. This one had a solder connection to the battery shell. But I want you to notice the quality of the wire stripping and soldering on this pic and the previous pic above. I would be embarrassed to do work like this. In MF's defense, I'm sure they farmed the PAs out.

https://www.amazon.com/photos/share/FjLTQCimFYIEpdJKyMsuYEd7wIAzzjPApgpfYOvzhCA
 
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Mysterion999,
OF

OF

Well-Known Member
Thanks for the photos. Most of it makes sense. FWIW, I'm not sure it's DC there. If I were doing it, I would not shy away from a step down circuit delivering AC. The load (box) doesn't care and removing rectifiers from the output can make some types of converters more efficient.

You're right, the workmanship is not pretty. Then again, we're never supposed to see it? Back when I worked one of the things I did for mere money was work on Electron Microscopes. The Japanese basically own the industry, there's one German maker (Phillips) and them. We no longer make them.

The older Japanese scopes are crude inside. Machining marks and clunky workmanship on pumping systems and such. All things you don't see. Nothing effecting function or performance. However, the 'owners' (Scientists) could not resist looking inside during service........ Now they Gold plate stuff inside for no technical reason. Super pretty. Fun stuff.

Thanks again for the peek inside.

OF
 
M

Mysterion999

Well-Known Member
OF said:
Yer welcome.

No, no specific instructions, but it's pretty simple. A three cell 18650 holder with the cells in series and a short cable with the female coax connector (center positive). You can see it in this photo (sorry, it won't post anymore.....). Gives about an hour heating IIRC. "A great plenty".

https://i.imgur.com/ChB3ycM.jpg

I've never had any trouble with my PAs, so never took one apart. Other guys report wire breaks where the cable connects to the adapter at the box end, which seems logical to me. Off hand my guess is the third wire is from the switch??? The PA needs to know when to light up......

OF
Click to expand...

I looked up the batteries you mentioned. Am I correct in understanding you were running 11 volts into your box?
 
Mysterion999,
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OF

OF

Well-Known Member
Mysterion999 said:
I looked up the batteries you mentioned. Am I correct in understanding you were running 11 volts into your box?
Click to expand...

Not exactly. Li-ions have huge capacity (which is why they're in laptops, cell phones and other such high tech portable stuff) but unlike some other chemistries their voltage depends on charge. They typically are charged to 4.2 Volts (100%) and discharge to about 3.3 Volts at 'dead'. The standard 'nominal value' is 3.7 Volts. So the pack starts out 12.6 Volts or so down to ten. But that doesn't matter in this case since the PA adjusts the output to the box to the setting you specify with the control. not the state of charge of the pack. It simply draws a bit more current at ten Volts than 12. The power draw, Volts times Amps, remains constant over the cycle.

Same as you car radio working 'normally' both when running with the engine off (typically 11 Volts or so) or running (and therefore charging) at closer to 15. It's still a '12 Volt system'.

You remove them to charge as individuals (which prevents a host of problems) using 3 of the four slots on typical chargers or if you have a single or dual slot charger, in relays.

FWIW these same cells are used to power vapes like Solo/Air/ArGo, FM and basically 'all' similar products. Not to mention the Tesla in your driveway (which uses hundreds of 18650s).....you do have a Tesla, right?

OF
 
M

Mysterion999

Well-Known Member
So you are using the battery pack to run your PA, correct? I was hoping you made a battery pack to run the LB directly.
 
Mysterion999,
el sargantano

el sargantano

Well-Known Member
Hello everyone
I've been using Launch Boxes since March'18 and I'm pretty satisfied.
I want to share with you the DIY battery case from wine corks.
Just a minute with a dremmel & a good file.

212zmaf.jpg

v3huz7.jpg

ao9ytl.jpg
 
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Vapeur Rogue

Vapeur Rogue

Est. 2013- Never Lookin' Back
Mysterion999 said:
Thank you again for sharing your knowledge. Nothing's ever easy is it? Would you happen to have a build thread on your battery pack somewhere?

Do you know how the wiring from the box to the LB works? I'm pretty sure I have two that the electronics work, but it loses connection at the dummy battery. I would like to see if I could make my own end and splice it into one and see if I could get one working again. I don't understand what the third wire goes to, I would assume the white and black wires being power for the rails. Does the switch tap off of one of these and send a signal back to the box? But then again you need power to the switch, so I doubt that is how it works.

I was informed that I have surpassed the limit they are willing to warranty, the one they are sending me now is my last replacement.



The LB is my first too. I thought it was an economical way to see if I would prefer vaping, as combusting was taking it's toll on me. I also like the look and feel of it. But if I have to rely on batteries, I will move on also.

I do think you are on to something as they are falling behind with technology. I'm an old guy and I like the simplicity and the fact that I control it. But I'm sure younger people want all the technology you could stuff into a vape. I usually smoke by myself, so the ritual of the LB is right up my alley, but for smoking with others, it's a PITA to use. I'm sure like many of you, I will be moving on to something newer and more convenient.

I'm sure i will always have a spot in my hear for the LB, but if I wind up getting screwed on the PA I will never forget that either.
Click to expand...

I keep getting drawn to the MFLB the burials and the ritual- well some aspects of the ritual-army would really like to give it a try, even though I have been very happy with other vapes-but simplicity is not what is he a in fact that's an attraction-the simple fact they've heard one instance of people's hands cramping during use means- with possibly that happening it is in direct conflict with one of the reasons why I vape to begin with!
 
Vapeur Rogue,
Choices

Choices

Well-Known Member
Vapeur Rogue said:
I keep getting drawn to the MFLB the burials and the ritual- well some aspects of the ritual-army would really like to give it a try, even though I have been very happy with other vapes-but simplicity is not what is he a in fact that's an attraction-the simple fact they've heard one instance of people's hands cramping during use means- with possibly that happening it is in direct conflict with one of the reasons why I vape to begin with!
Click to expand...

Once you have your technique to where you control the temp with your inhale pull, remove the rubber washer in the battery chamber. I like knowing it is on when the battery goes in, then pull it out slightly to open the circuit when I’m just about finished with a draw. Ditch the stem and you are down to a very compact and effective item. But you will still likely get VAS :-)
 
Vapeur Rogue

Vapeur Rogue

Est. 2013- Never Lookin' Back
Choices said:
Once you have your technique to where you control the temp with your inhale pull, remove the rubber washer in the battery chamber. I like knowing it is on when the battery goes in, then pull it out slightly to open the circuit when I’m just about finished with a draw. Ditch the stem and you are down to a very compact and effective item. But you will still likely get VAS :-)
Click to expand...

Thanks for the response! I have had intense VAS since finally joining this forum in Aug? of this year- I have been lurking since 2013 ish, and thanks to this community settled on my first 3 vapes back then and stayed relatively free of VAS for years (Still thrilled with all 3 choices, though my FW2 bricked a while ago. I have acquired a FW5 and FW 4 since joining.)- Since joining, I have been actively collecting, and have almost 20 vapes now with more to come. My renewed spark of curiosity regarding the MFLB is due to this case of VAS actually.
 
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Choices

Choices

Well-Known Member
Vapeur Rogue said:
Thanks for the response! I have had intense VAS since finally joining this forum in Aug? of this year- I have been lurking since 2013 ish, and thanks to this community settled on my first 3 vapes back then and stayed relatively free of VAS for years (Still thrilled with all 3 choices, though my FW2 bricked a while ago. I have acquired a FW5 and FW 4 since joining.)- Since joining, I have been actively collecting, and have almost 20 vapes now with more to come. My renewed spark of curiosity regarding the MFLB is due to this case of VAS actually.
Click to expand...

So what were your first 3 vapes? And what are you using regularly now? MFLB was my first “real vape” after a misinformed Atmos purchase or two. If you decide on getting one, get the finishing grinder from the get go. I waited a bit on it and I didn’t realize how much of a difference it makes. Don’t try to chase clouds. Instead just sit and marvel at how someone came up with this thing!
 
Vapeur Rogue

Vapeur Rogue

Est. 2013- Never Lookin' Back
Choices said:
So what were your first 3 vapes? And what are you using regularly now? MFLB was my first “real vape” after a misinformed Atmos purchase or two. If you decide on getting one, get the finishing grinder from the get go. I waited a bit on it and I didn’t realize how much of a difference it makes. Don’t try to chase clouds. Instead just sit and marvel at how someone came up with this thing!
Click to expand...

My first 3 were Vapman (w/Mica) Lotus w/Long aluminum stem, and Firewood 2.
I rarely chase clouds. I keep everything in constant rotation, but some of my latest to arrive, have been a Lil'Bud, Firewood 4, and a very behind the times Ascent- I have a Tubo Evic on order as well.
 
Vapeur Rogue,
Choices

Choices

Well-Known Member
Puffitup has the MistVape Touch, which has a technique not unlike the MFLB, for under $135 right now with the BF code. It is sorta like a Solo and the MFLB had a kid, what with the glass stem and all. I like it a lot but after last using it, the next day I got out the Solo and the MFLB too! Friday was fun!:ko:
 
Vapeur Rogue

Vapeur Rogue

Est. 2013- Never Lookin' Back
Choices said:
Puffitup has the MistVape Touch, which has a technique not unlike the MFLB, for under $135 right now with the BF code. It is sorta like a Solo and the MFLB had a kid, what with the glass stem and all. I like it a lot but after last using it, the next day I got out the Solo and the MFLB too! Friday was fun!:ko:
Click to expand...

Nice. I do enjoy my Mist Vape Touch 2. Have not gotten its predecessor (yet).
 
Vapeur Rogue,
vapirtoo

vapirtoo

Well-Known Member
I must chime in and say that of all my vapes the LB has such an intimate vape signature; it seems to bring flower right into your mouth, especially if you are hitting in native mode with your lips lovingly caressing the wood- kind of suggestive- with no glass or bubbler interference. The cloudless high is awesome, and if I'm outside one trench per hour is quite enough.
 
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Mysterion999

Well-Known Member
I thought I would give a follow up to my never ending power supply problems.

When MF informed me that they would not send me anymore replacements even if they failed within the 90 day warranty period, I decided to make sure this one would not have a chance to fail at the connection as so many have.

Using styrene tubing I made a strain relief that fits in the plastic housing and does not allow even the slightest movement of the cable entering the dummy battery. It's a bit long to describe how it was made, but this is I think the longest I've had one of these units to work.

This is only partly good news. The unit now is losing power, my sweet spot was just about 1/2 power, now to get the same performance I need to have it on full. I was lucky enough to run into someone who had a new 2.1 PA minus the wallwart and gave it to me. I just broke that one out and that one gets hotter at half power than my current one does at full power.

After the last PA dies, I will be done with MF. They left me hanging on a question I was supposed to get a reply on , plus they seem to have ignored my last email inquiring about the said question. I guess they are tired of me complaining about their inferior Power Adaptors.
 
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Choices

Choices

Well-Known Member
SiDankies said:
So yesterday I got new batteries for the MFLB and used it for the first time in a few years and after much more experience with other vapes. This things rips and is extremely effective. I was getting large clouds yesterday I was shocked. Pretty much put itself in my rotation
Click to expand...
I keep coming back to my MFLB time and again. New batteries and the finishing grinder make this such an enjoyable and simple way to enjoy flower once you have your technique perfected. The Bottle Rocket is my one and only water accessory and I like how it can use virtually any beverage bottle. I’m using mine with a 1 liter flat bottom Pyrex laboratory flask, which is essentially a bigger more stable version of the Orbiter. Packs a punch for sure!
 
OF

OF

Well-Known Member
SiDankies said:
Anyone ever have a black substance on the top of their batteries ?
Click to expand...

More than one of them? Not a big deal, they leak as individuals, not groups.

What sort of black stuff is it? Any chance it's bits of the pushback ring? There should be no oxides or other stuff you find on exposed Copper under heat/time. It is, I think, possibly condensate from 'blowbacks' when hitting it, IIRC there's a connection to the bowl (but usually blocked by the ring).

This is with the 'factory battery' right? LB is an extreme demand on the little guy which is why they get hot (wasted power, bad karma, we want the hot stuff in the trench....) and have such short lives. Please confirm? TIA

So, no, that's not common. What does it look like?

OF
 
OF

OF

Well-Known Member
SiDankies said:
It almost looks like grease its on the top of the battery the positive side. Its MFLB brand battery the gold ones I just got them not even 3 weeks ago.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the additional information, if 'liquid like' the pushback ring is probably not the source.

Again, 'just one'? You started out plural (which pretty much eliminates individual failures and points to the box or something they have in common rather than a failure of a single cell.

If it's one of several, and it's new, I'd send it back. Actually I'd test it's capacity first, but I assume you don't have that facility.

OF
 
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