Project ideas from Hacker News discussions.

PCB Rework and Repair Guide [pdf]

Original Article

Hacker News Discussion

📝 Discussion Summary (Click to expand)

Key takeaways from the discussion

Recommendation to watch PACE videos
“Watch the PACE videos as well, they’re on YouTube…” – barfiure
YouTube as the distribution platform
“…they’re on YouTube…” – barfiure
Content focus on removing conformal coating and tool usage
“…they also cover how to remove conformal coating and using different tools.” – barfiure

🚀 Project Ideas

Generating project ideas…

CoatAway: Guided Conformal Coating Removal Assistant

Summary

Provides step‑by‑step, tool‑specific instructions for safely removing conformal coating from PCBs.
Combines text, video, and AR overlays to help users identify the right solvent, heat source, and mechanical tools.
Core value: eliminates trial‑and‑error, reduces board damage, and speeds up repair time.

Details

Key	Value
Target Audience	Electronics hobbyists, repair technicians, small‑scale manufacturers
Core Feature	Interactive removal workflow, tool & solvent recommendations, safety checklist, AR overlay for real‑time guidance
Tech Stack	React Native (mobile), ARCore/ARKit, Node.js backend, Firebase for auth & data
Difficulty	Medium
Monetization	Revenue‑ready: subscription (monthly $4.99)

Notes

HN commenters often ask for “how to remove conformal coating” and reference PACE videos; this app consolidates that knowledge into a single, guided experience.
The AR overlay lets users see exactly where to apply solvent or heat, reducing costly mistakes.
Discussion potential: comparing solvent efficacy, tool durability, and user‑generated tips.

ToolMatch: Smart Tool Recommendation Engine for Electronics Repair

Summary

Matches repair tasks (e.g., “remove conformal coating”) with the optimal set of tools and consumables.
Aggregates product specs, prices, and user reviews to provide a one‑stop recommendation.
Core value: saves time researching, ensures users buy the right tools, and reduces wasted purchases.

Details

Key	Value
Target Audience	DIY electronics enthusiasts, repair shops, educational labs
Core Feature	Natural‑language query interface, AI‑driven recommendation, price comparison, purchase links
Tech Stack	Python (Flask), OpenAI GPT‑4 for NLP, PostgreSQL, Stripe API for affiliate payouts
Difficulty	Medium
Monetization	Revenue‑ready: affiliate commissions + premium ad‑free tier ($9.99/month)

Notes

The comment “watch the PACE videos … cover how to remove conformal coating” shows users need tool guidance; ToolMatch directly addresses that.
Users can discuss tool performance, share custom setups, and rate recommendations.
Practical utility: reduces trial‑and‑error and helps novices avoid expensive mistakes.

CoatSim: VR Training Simulator for Conformal Coating Removal

Summary

Immersive VR experience that simulates the process of removing conformal coating from PCBs.
Provides realistic physics, tool handling, and safety scenarios to train users before working on real boards.
Core value: lowers learning curve, prevents board damage, and offers repeatable practice.

Details

Key	Value
Target Audience	Electronics repair professionals, training programs, hobbyists
Core Feature	VR simulation of solvent application, heat treatment, mechanical removal, real‑time feedback
Tech Stack	Unity 3D, Oculus SDK, C#, cloud‑based asset hosting
Difficulty	High
Monetization	Revenue‑ready: one‑time purchase ($49.99) + optional subscription for updates ($4.99/month)

Notes

HN users often mention the difficulty of mastering conformal coating removal; CoatSim gives a risk‑free way to practice.
The simulator can be used in workshops, schools, or by individuals to benchmark skill levels.
Discussion potential: comparing simulation fidelity, tool ergonomics, and best‑practice workflows.