Getting started

Relab documents a product while you take it apart. A useful first record needs a clear product identity, a few good photos, and notes on what you found.

Create an account

1. Go to app.cml-relab.org or open sign up.
2. Register with email and password, or sign in with GitHub or Google.
3. Verify your email if prompted. Some features only activate once the account is verified.

Fastest path in

GitHub and Google sign-in skip the email-verification step.

Before you start

• Prepare a workspace with enough space for the product and separated components.
• Good lighting matters more than equipment; see Hardware.
• Have a device ready for photos. A phone is fine; a camera rig is optional.

Make your first product record

Once signed in:

1. Create a product record for the item you’re about to document, such as a power drill.
2. Add identifying information: name, brand, model, any initial notes.
3. Photograph the intact product before you open it.
4. As you disassemble, create child records for meaningful components, such as a battery pack, motor assembly, or housing.
5. Attach images, measurements, and notes at the level where they belong.

Start simple

A partial record with good photos beats a perfect one that never gets finished. You can fill in gaps later.

Next steps

• Data collection guide: how to build a thorough record
• Hardware: simple and advanced capture setups
• RPi camera: if you are using a camera device
• API guide: for scripts and technical integrations