Fun Projects Not to Do: Bluetooth Handset

I found this bluetooth handset while browsing the web. I like the idea but didn't like the "Retro" style. I decided to make my own.

The first thing I had to do was wait until my favorite one day deal site had bluetooth headsets. Lucky me I got them on a two for Tuesday special. You can use any bluetooth headset, as long as you can disect it. In the mean time I started gathering the other main part, the telephone handset.

De-construct the headset and the handset. The headset was easy, unscrew the screw located under the serial label. BTW you can use any bluetooth device and telephone handset you want. To de-construct the telephone handset the process is harder. The unit is sealed very well. Use a flathead screw driver and small mallet to break the seal. This is done by using the screw driver as a chisel to break the sealed seem of the handset. Do this all the way around it. Once the seal is broken the unit can be pried apart.

Remove the circuit board and mic from the handset. Leave about 1 inch of wire on the speaker. Remove the circuit board from the headset leave the mic attached, clip the speaker leads, you will need them later. Tack solder the handset speaker to the clipped speaker leads of the headset board. Wedge the headset mic into the rubber gasket. At this point you can test the unit with your bluetooth enabled phone. Not only does it work, I CAN HEAR IT! The better quality speaker is much louder than the tiny POS that we started with. (I work in a noisy environment and my headset just isn't loud enough)

Once you have tested the unit you can begin final assembly. This requires EXTREME PATIENCE and SKILL. If you are a novice with a soldering iron, stop now. Good thing I got the headset on a two for deal. I mutilated the first one attempting to remove the volume/pairing buttons. Locate solder points for all the external connections; Vol. Up/Down, Answer, Charge Jack. Were you locate the buttons on your handset is up to you. I suggest placing the charging jack in the hole left by the RJ-4 jack. Use thin multi-strand wire to make all your connections. The multi-strand wire will put less stress on the solder pads. Once you have all the peices were you want them it is time to reassemble the handset.

When you are done you will have a Bluetooth Handset that you can use with your phone. I have a classic ringer sound on my phone and since it can only be used as a speaker phone or with the attached headphones, I prefer to use the bluetooth. The handset is just what I need.