MC Power
Polaroid Camera
An electronic upgrade module for vintage camera to enable operation by embedded rechargeable batteries with modern USB-C charging. This also eliminates the need for non-rechargeable batteries and extends the lifespan of these vintage cameras.
YEAR
2023
CLIENT
Confidential
EXPERTISE
Electronic Design
PCBA Production
Firmware development
Prototyping
Testing & Qualification
Mass Production
The Challenge
Our client, a well-known name in refurbished cameras, wanted to bring a classic vintage camera back to life for the modern age.
Our team was challenged. First, the power system was outdated and incompatible with today’s standards. No rechargeable batteries, no modern charging options, and a setup that wasn’t exactly eco-friendly or convenient. Second, any modification had to fit perfectly within the original body. No extra bulk, no compromise on the vintage aesthetics that made the camera so special.
In other words, we needed to re-engineer its core power system without changing what made it iconic in the first place.
Our Approach
We began by studying the original power layout, understanding how it operated, and identifying what could be modernized without affecting its functionality. From there, our engineers designed a custom power schematic that would allow for safe, reliable use of modern rechargeable batteries.
To make the camera compatible with USB-C charging, we integrated an embedded firmware system to manage power distribution, charging cycles, and safety limits. Every component was chosen and positioned with precision, making sure that the internal fit was as seamless as if it had been designed that way from the start.
Beyond just the design phase, we handled full PCBA production and quality control, testing each unit to ensure consistency and reliability. It wasn’t just about making it work, it was about making it work beautifully, every time.
Throughout the process, we collaborated closely with the client, sharing prototypes and gathering feedback to ensure that the modern upgrades complemented the camera’s original body.
The Result
What emerged from this project was more than just a technical upgrade, it was a thoughtful transformation. The once battery-limited vintage camera now runs on rechargeable batteries and supports USB-C charging, making it far more convenient and sustainable for everyday use.
For our client, this project proved that innovation and nostalgia can go hand in hand. And for us, it was a rewarding reminder of how engineering can breathe new life into timeless design.
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