My name is Kevin. I’m new to the forums. I am currently working on a Proton Pack for a Halloween costume this year. I have purchased the required materials from Lowes to follow Norm’s instructions. A few alterations have been made. I have added a secondary chamber to the “Motherboard” so it will accommodate a pair of 4x6" speakers, a larger battery bank, and an Alpine 18x2 watt amplifier. I have wired the setup so I can play music off my iPhone 4S and add a sound chip for the pack effects. I will post pictures as I go. I can tell there is a great wealth of knowledge and I’m happy to be here.
I used Norm’s plans as well, but just keep in mind those are the most inaccurate of the available plans here. Check and recheck reference pics here, and also keep a mind to the total weight of your materials.
Also keep in mind where you intend on wearing your pack. if you plan on costume contests in clubs or crowded bars, build with durability in mind, but expect even them to take some kind of damage.
A 30-50 pound packs can be an unpleasant experience.
Good luck!
Accuracy isn’t as important to me. Durability should be fine. It will be all 1/4 plywood construction. I’m gluing and using the brad gun with extra reinforcement/bracing. Weight…I guess I’ll have to see when I’m done. I have no way of controlling it. The amp, speakers and batteries are light. Gotta pay the cost to be the boss!
Anyways, thanks for having me.