How to Install the GCraft MGSD Aerial LED Kit
TakaraModel
INSTALLATION GUIDE
How to Install the GCraft MGSD Aerial LED Kit — Step-by-Step FPC Routing, App Setup, and Halo Integration
Complete 6-phase installation guide: FPC circuit routing, three zone connections, controller mounting, bonus kits, and App pairing. Estimated 2–4 hours.
The GCraft MGSD Aerial LED Kit is engineered for relatively straightforward installation — but "intermediate DIY recommended" means you should go in prepared. This guide walks you through every step: from initial FPC routing and zone connections, to App pairing, to integrating the bonus weapon, shield, and Halo kits.
Estimated total installation time: 2–4 hours for first-time LED installers.
Before You Begin: What You'll Need
Tools not included:
- ▸Sharp hobby knife (sharp blade required for clean cuts)
- ▸Sandpaper or sanding sticks (600–800 grit)
- ▸Fine-tip tweezers (for sticker application)
- ▸Small Phillips screwdriver (for controller unit mounting)
- ▸USB power source (wall adapter, power bank, or PC USB)
- ▸Magnification lamp (strongly recommended)
Optional:
- ▸Anti-static mat (prevents ESD damage)
- ▸UV resin or PVA glue (for sticker adhesion)
- ▸Modeling putty (for gap filling after cable routing)
Installation Overview: Six Phases
| Phase | Task | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preparation and inspection | 15 min |
| 2 | FPC circuit routing (main body) | 45–60 min |
| 3 | Zone connections: eye, thruster, sting | 20–30 min |
| 4 | Controller unit mounting | 15 min |
| 5 | Bonus kits: weapon, shield, halo | 20–30 min |
| 6 | App pairing and testing | 10 min |
Phase 1: Preparation and Inspection
Step 1.1 — Inspect all components: Remove everything from the package. Check all FPC circuit strips for tears at connector points, verify zone lead cables are undamaged, and confirm the controller powers on (brief USB-C test).
Step 1.2 — Dry-fit the MGSD Aerial: Complete the model kit assembly before installing the LED kit.
Step 1.3 — Plan your routing path: Hold the main FPC strip against the model's body and confirm alignment with each LED point before adhering anything.
Phase 2–3: FPC Routing and Zone Connections
FPC Routing (Phase 2)
- ▸Trim gate marks at FPC terminal points (800-grit sandpaper, < 0.5mm material removal)
- ▸Route the single main control cable through the torso's internal channel
- ▸Seat the FPC strip top-to-bottom, use PVA glue or poster tack to hold before final adhesion
Key tip: FPC circuits require a minimum 3mm bend radius — do not fold sharply at corners.
Zone Connections (Phase 3)
- ▸Zephyranthes Sting: LED mount points on back ring → sting stickers over LED points → cloud stickers on body panels → route to controller
- ▸Eye Unit: Access head from above → connect to visor mount → route through neck joint channel (leave 5mm slack for rotation)
- ▸Thrusters: Access rear vent mounts → connect both leads → route through hip channel → confirm no protrusion at full leg articulation
Phase 4: Controller Unit Mounting
- Open the chest cavity panel (designed to accommodate a controller unit)
- Mount the controller using the included adhesive pad or screw points
- Connect all three zone cables to their designated ports on the controller
- Connect the USB-C power cable to the controller's USB port
- Close the chest panel — the USB port should be accessible from outside
- Power on via the physical switch to confirm all zones illuminate
Troubleshooting: If a zone doesn't light, check the cable connection at both ends — press firmly until you hear/feel a click.
Phase 5: Bonus Kits — Weapon, Shield, and Halo
- ▸Weapon Kit: Disassemble beam saber + rifle → apply FPC strips to interior → route through arm cable channel → connect to weapon port
- ▸Shield Kit: Attach shield FPC strip inside the shield body → route through arm attachment point → connect to shield port
- ▸Halo Kit (Bonus): Apply FPC strip around the Permet Ring's interior circumference → route through back panel → connect to Halo port
Phase 6: App Pairing and Testing
- Download the "GCraft LED" app from iOS App Store or Google Play
- Enable Bluetooth on your device and open the GCraft app
- Tap "Add Device" — the controller appears as "GCraft-Aerial-XXXX" — tap to pair
- Use the three sliders in the app to confirm each zone illuminates
- Try preset "G-Witch" scenes: "Permet Sting" and "Bit Stance" are community favorites
- Save your favorite combination as a named scene for one-tap recall
Note: The controller remembers your last scene even when powered off. The App is only needed to change settings.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Prevention |
|---|---|
| Zone cable not fully seated | Press firmly until connector clicks |
| FPC crease at sharp bend | Maintain 3mm minimum bend radius |
| Neck cable too tight | Leave 5mm slack at neck joint |
| Powering on before all connections made | Connect all cables first, then power on |
| Forgetting to test before closing panels | Test every zone before final assembly |
Order the GCraft MGSD Aerial LED Light Kit
Pre-order now · First batch ships July 2026 · Compatible with Bandai MGSD Aerial Gundam only
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a beginner install this kit?
The kit is rated for intermediate builders. Budget extra time if you've never worked with FPC circuits or LEDs before.
Q: How do I route the cable through the neck without restricting movement?
Leave approximately 5mm of slack in the cable at the neck joint. Route it through the MGSD's built-in cable channel — the kit is designed to accommodate this.
Q: What if an LED zone stops working after installation?
Check both connection points (controller port and LED terminal). If the cable is visibly damaged, contact customer support within 48 hours with photos. Do not attempt to solder repairs on FPC circuits.
Q: Can I install the kit before painting my model?
Yes — it's recommended to install LEDs before painting, as some steps involve working inside the body. Painting after LED installation is possible but requires more care.
Q: Does the App need to be running for the lights to work?
No. Once you've set your scene and saved it, the controller remembers the settings. The App only needs to be open to change the lighting. The physical power switch works independently.
Q: Can I use a power bank at a convention display?
Yes. Any standard USB power bank (5V) will work. A 5000mAh bank runs the kit for 8–12+ hours depending on brightness settings.