MatteoRoma

After weeks of testing faulty COB LEDs, I finally received a working batch. One brighter LED was reserved for the Enterprise-E, while the others were prepared with their own current-limiting resistors before being integrated into the wiring.

I also redesigned the electrical system, separating it into three independent power lines: one for the Borg Cube's internal lighting, one for the phaser beams, and one dedicated to the remaining 5V lighting effects. This should make the final assembly much cleaner and easier to troubleshoot.

With the electronics finally in place, I permanently installed the Cube's internal lighting and carried out the first full phaser test. Each illuminated beam is supported by a blackened brass rod, with the light guide bonded directly to it. The Enterprise-E was drilled to anchor one end of the rod, while the other is fixed deep inside the Cube at the impact point, where a small cotton effect begins to simulate the explosion.

This was the biggest technical milestone of the entire project. Until now, there was no guarantee that the illuminated phasers could be integrated cleanly while also supporting the ships. Seeing the complete scene come to life for the first time was a huge relief and confirmed that the concept works.

Next week I'll prepare the remaining Federation ships, each suspended by its own illuminated phaser beam. After that, I'll refine the explosion effects, add more visual effects to the background, and begin the final detailing of both the ships and the Borg Cube.