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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesYou can personalize the TinyTV DIY Kit by painting its enclosure before assembly and loading converted videos onto its microSD card. For videos, convert each file with TinyCircuits’ TSV Converter, copy the resulting TSV files to the card, then insert it into the kit. This guide is specifically for the DIY Kit; the assembled TinyTV 2 has a different enclosure and video-loading process.
First, make sure you have the right TinyTV
The TinyTV DIY Kit is the model covered here: its enclosure is assembled by the owner, and its standard video workflow uses a microSD card and TSV-converted files. TinyCircuits recommends painting the enclosure before assembly, when the small surfaces are easier to reach.
TinyTV 2 is a separate, fully assembled product with a plastic case and USB-C video loading. Do not apply the DIY Kit’s disassembly or painting steps to TinyTV 2; use instructions for that model instead.
What you need to paint the DIY enclosure
- Acrylic or enamel paint and a small paintbrush; small flat brushes are practical for the tiny surfaces.
- A palette, tweezers, filtered water, cotton swabs, and a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
- Masking tape or liquid frisket if you want to protect areas from paint.
- Optional fine-grit sandpaper and primer. If you use primer, choose one formulated for plastic.
- Metallic markers are an alternative to brush-applied paint.
TinyCircuits’ tutorial says it uses Arteza acrylic paint and that any acrylic paint will do. It also lists enamel as an option. Acrylic washes can be diluted with water; enamel washes require a solvent. Follow the paint and solvent labels for handling and cleanup, and keep liquids away from electronics.
#1 Best Overall
- Arduino-compatible platform with a powerful 32-bit ARM processor
- A beautiful and vibrant full-color OLED screen
- MicroSD card included and preloaded with content
- Built-in speaker, Rechargeable lithium battery + USB port for charging
- Includes Tiny Remote with battery
Paint the enclosure before assembly
- Prepare the surface. If desired, gently sand the raw 3D-printed texture to smooth it. Sanding is optional. Wipe away dust with a lint-free cloth before painting.
- Prime only if needed. Primer is optional; use a plastic-compatible product. Let it dry according to its label before applying paint.
- Apply a base coat. Work in thin, controlled passes over the enclosure. TinyCircuits says a dry brush gives darker, more even color, while a wet brush produces a more opaque result. Practice on paper or another smooth surface first.
- Let the base coat dry. Add another coat or touch up areas as needed only after the paint has dried.
- Add details if you want them. Use masking tape or liquid frisket to protect areas that should remain unpainted. TinyCircuits notes that dried liquid frisket can be difficult to remove, so tape may be easier for some projects.
- Allow the finish to dry fully before assembly. Avoid getting paint on buttons, openings, or electronic components.
Optional texture and shading effects
- Dry brushing: lightly brush a small amount of paint across raised areas for a wood-grain-like effect.
- Wash: apply diluted acrylic paint into recessed areas, such as around the screen, to emphasize them. Enamel requires solvent rather than water for dilution.
- Stippling: dab paint to create texture around a button or knob.
Convert and load your own videos
The DIY Kit’s standard workflow does not require programming. It plays content stored on its microSD card; it does not receive over-the-air television or livestreams. The card included with the kit is preloaded with sample videos.
- Choose a source video. Confirm that the original file plays on your computer before converting it.
- Convert it to TSV. Use TinyCircuits’ TSV Converter to create the format the DIY Kit uses. The converter’s settings and conversion behavior are specific to the source file; no universal duration or encoding guarantee is established here.
- Copy the converted TSV file or files to the microSD card. The order of files on the card determines their channel order, according to TinyCircuits’ project guide. Arrange the files in the order you want them to appear.
- Safely eject the card from your computer, then insert it into the TinyTV DIY Kit.
- Power on and check playback. If the kit reports that no card is found, check that the card is fully inserted.
TinyCircuits’ assembly guide says users can load up to five hours of their own videos using the converter. Treat that as a kit-specific manufacturer claim, not a guarantee for every encoding, card, or collection of files. The kit’s product page notes that a micro-USB cable is not included.
Rank #2
- Suggested Programming Environment: Arduino IDE Utilized IC / Part: ATtiny841
If a new microSD card does not work
TinyCircuits suggests formatting a new card as FAT32 if the device does not recognize it. Formatting erases the card, so copy any files you want to keep elsewhere first. After formatting, convert and copy the videos again, safely eject the card, and check that it is fully inserted.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Sources and model-specific instructions
The painting recommendations are from TinyCircuits’ tutorial by Lindsey Sisler, published January 23, 2020. Video loading and troubleshooting are described on TinyCircuits’ DIY Kit product page and its TinyTV assembly and Hackster project guides. TinyTV 2’s enclosure and USB-C distinction comes from its separate TinyCircuits product page.
Quick Recap
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- 【Precautions and Customer Service】 Please note that batteries are not included in the packaging and must be purchased separately. This product is suitable for individuals aged 14 and above. We are committed to providing outstanding customer service. Should you encounter any issues during assembly, please feel free to reach out to us.
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