I use Dash Buttons* in quite a few places around my home — mostly as a substitute for a light switch where one is inconveniently located, or not present at all.
I prefer them to alternative options like the Flic Button* because they’re dramatically cheaper (a Dash is $5, compared to $35 for a Flic). They’re also occasionally on sale for $0.99.
My only frustration with Dash buttons is that they’re meant to be disposable, despite being powered by a replaceable AAA battery. The electronics are encased by two pieces of welded plastic. It’s easy to break the weld, but difficult to reassemble in a pretty way.
Having recently started dabbling in 3D design and printing, I decided to create a reusable case. The humble fruit of my efforts is here:
I’m happy with how this turned out — it’s easy to open the case and replace the battery without damaging anything.
(Dis-)assembly
Pretty straightforward. I took apart the stock case using some channel locks to break the welds:
![](https://blog.christophermullins.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/dash_button_dis1.jpg)
With a little bit of elbow grease, and a T5 screwdriver to remove the battery enclosure, it comes apart like so:
![](https://blog.christophermullins.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/dash_button_dis2.jpg)
A pry tool can be used to remove the PCB if it doesn’t come off by itself.
![](https://blog.christophermullins.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/dash_button_dis3.jpg)
Assembly is straightforward. First, put the plastic button and the rubber seal in place.
![](https://blog.christophermullins.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/dash_button_as1-1.jpg)
Then the PCB is placed back on the pegs, battery enclosure placed on top, and T5 screws added back. Do not over-tighten the screws! The printed pegs are quite fragile and will break under too much pressure.
![](https://blog.christophermullins.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/dash_button_as2.jpg)
After adding the battery back, the lid can be pressed onto the body:
![](https://blog.christophermullins.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/dash_button_as3.jpg)
And that’s it! Fully assembled Dash case.
Update: Sept 4, 2018
I’ve uploaded a slightly modified version. The main change makes it harder to over-tighten screws making the button unpressable.
[ * ] Contains Amazon affiliate link
I like this homemade version assembly of Dash Case.