Breakaway

While the Canandcoder ships with both a data port and solder pads for flexibility and reundancy, some users may wish to shorten the encoder or reduce entry points for debris. In these cases, we offer a way to permanently remove the data port easily to convert the encoder into a CAN-only mode.

Warning

This process is irreversible. Only do this if you are sure you will not use the 10 pin IDC connector in the future.

Items

Required items:

  • Canandcoder

  • Sharp flush cutter

  • Safety glasses

  • (Optional) Vise or pliers

Note that safety glasses are not optional. Small pieces of plastic or PCB can go flying when cut, so please keep yourself safe and make sure that you and others around you are wearing safety glasses.

Canandcoder with casing parts

Step 1: Canandcoder

First, we will trim the Canandcoder.

Danger

Attempting to break apart the Canandcoder by hand can cause permanent damage to the device. Always use a sharp pair of flush cutters to clip away the data port. Do not bend the Canandcoder!

Postion the blade of the flush cutter directly over the center of the breakaway slots. Holding the encoder in pliers or (very gently!) in a vise is encouraged to stop the encoder from flying away after cutting.

Canandcoder being held by flush cutters

Firmly clip the Canandcoder. It may take one cut per rib or fewer to break the Canandcoder apart. Be mindful of flying offshoots during cutting!

Canandcoder trimmed short

The Canandcoder is now trimmed. Short stubs of ribs can be further trimmed with the flush cutters if desired.

Canandcoder smoothed on end after trimming

Step 2: Casing

Danger

Attempting to break apart the casing by hand can cause permanent damage to the device. Always use a sharp pair of flush cutters to clip away plastic. Do not bend the casing!

Postion the blade of the flush cutter directly over the center of the breakaway slots. Holding the casing in pliers or (very gently!) in a vise is encouraged to stop the plastic from flying away after cutting.

Canandcoder casing being held by flush cutters

Firmly clip the casing. It may take one cut per rib or fewer to break the casing apart. Be mindful of flying offshoots during cutting!

Canandcoder casing after trimming

Stubs of ribs can be further trimmed with the flush cutters if desired.

Canandcoder casing with encoder after trimming, open

The shorter casing lid should now fit onto the Canandcoder.

Canandcoder casing with encoder after trimming, closed up

Your Canandcoder has now been converted into CAN-only operation.