To avoid jacking Verygreens thread on usb host support, I am creating this thread for development of the Nook Color Backpack.
What is the Backpack, you ask?
The Backpack will be an open hardware based addon similar in style to the sliders used on Compaq(HP) iPaqs. It will be self contained in that it will carry its own battery source for powering USB peripherals and also a few built in goodies such as a camera module, stereo speakers(possibly amplified), and possibly a GPS module.
This thread is to help others who may want to build a similar device and to accept input from the community on its design. PLEASE, refrain from any flame wars or other similar postings.
Feel free to post with suggestions, comments or even criticism(as long as it is constructive).
Reserved for schematics and other technical details....
reserved for pics and misc. details......
Neat idea! I'm looking forward to seeing where this goes.
Subscribed
Interesting idea...
Sparkfun.com sells a bunch of stuff that would make for a good prototype:
5V 600mA boost converter and LiIon charger (w/ microusb charging port):
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10300
2Ah single LiPo cell:
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8483
microUSB plug - right angle breakout:
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10031
USB A socket:
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9011
If you were planning to use a hub you'd need a more capable boost converter or go with 2 LiPo cells in series and step-down. For a proof-of-concept I think you can get pretty far with these parts.
pokey9000 said:
Sparkfun.com sells a bunch of stuff that would make for a good prototype:
5V 600mA boost converter and LiIon charger (w/ microusb charging port):
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10300
2Ah single LiPo cell:
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8483
microUSB plug - right angle breakout:
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10031
USB A socket:
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9011
If you were planning to use a hub you'd need a more capable boost converter or go with 2 LiPo cells in series and step-down. For a proof-of-concept I think you can get pretty far with these parts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks pokey. I'll check into those. As far as the plug, I'm currently looking at buying and modifying a stock cable...to retain stock charging from a high amp source. Externally I think I will be going with a standard female USB A port for power in/stock USB connectivity.
The hub I've chosen so far is a cheapo Targus unpowered. Very easy to mod into what will be required.
Really need to get on a rough draft drawing of the general layout. I work 12 hours a day in construction. Ill try hard to squeeze spare time in for this and pics of the little I have done so far this week.
Sent from my NookColor using XDA Premium App
solar panel, 1.8" hard drive, flash card reader, speakers and 3g card are some things I think might also be cool in something like this.
I am digging this idea. Can't wait to see some progress on this. If the speakers were bt then you could limit the wires some. Space for a 1/8 inch hdd would be nice because you could just use a cf card if you desired. Could really make the nook into a sort of laptop device if done right. Really can't wait to see this. Also check this out. Found it in another thread. May want to add a holder for it into the design somehow. http://www.amazon.com/ProMini-Wireless-Bluetooth-Keyboard-TouchPad/dp/B003ZJEUBI/ref=pd_sim_e_1
Good idea 3G will be appreciated.
Sent from my LogicPD Zoom2 using XDA Premium App
It took some googling for me to figure out what you were trying to do, but I see now you want to make a hard case that slides over the back of the NC with some hardware integrated.
My main criticism is that the backpack form factor is really optimized for handheld devices, and the NC is already pushing the practical weight for a handheld device. We're looking at easily another 1lb or more with this hardware, rendering it more of a docking station, at which point an actual docking station with a keyboard makes more sense.
Still, if you do want to design a backpack, consider incorporating stands and grips to make it more ergonomic. For instance, you could have fold-out tripod legs, or a picture-frame style easel, and indentations or possibly even finger loops.
Personally, I would prefer a genuine dock to serve as the 'other half of the laptop,' without requiring that the NC be either permanently attached to all that hardware or removed from its primary case.
to make the hooks that go around the side you could use sugru to mold them. i would think that would work.
I have a few thoughts.
1. I might find time to make this into my obsession for a while, as much as this interests me. My degree is in electronic engineering and I'm a pretty crafty person so perhaps I can be of assistance. I will give it some thought and see if I can contribute. So busy this days with life...
2. One of the things I need to be able to switch from a full laptop is the ability to sit this thing on my lap and work from a keyboard. With all the current cases, they are not supported properly like a hinged laptop display so they have to be on something and propped up. To be able to use some type of hinged holder that is stiff enough to hold the Nook up would be awesome. I have some ideas on how to do this, it could be the finishing touch once it's all working.
3. With the functionality that most people seem to want, I personally don't think size is that big of an issue. Why don't we figure out how to mod one of the existing iPad cases or something of that nature? That would give a slightly larger keyboard and the extra space around where the Nook would attach and/or slide into could hold the additional hardware like speakers and such. IMO, if I can have the size of the Nook and pop it into something like this when I *really* need to work or type a long email, I'm cool with a slightly larger format.
I'm struggling to keep up with some of the latest info regarding USB host & BT support on the Nook and such, but I'll see if I can read up. I'm guessing that once the source for HC is released it all becomes easier and it appears that CM7 is already making a lot of progress.
troyy0206 said:
2. One of the things I need to be able to switch from a full laptop is the ability to sit this thing on my lap and work from a keyboard.
...
3. With the functionality that most people seem to want, I personally don't think size is that big of an issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
More power to you, though it sounds like the Asus Transformer is exactly what you want.
Take a look at this:http://www.energizerpowerpacks.com/us/
I have 2 of the XP4001 models, each one is the size of a small usb hard drive. It has two usb ports on it and charges my phone, digital camera, and mp3 player great.
Haven't tried it on the Nook yet...
If I get what you're trying to do, taking apart one of the XP8000 models and going from there might be a good part of the prototype puzzle?
You can find these at office supply stores, more then big box electronics stores.
pokey9000 said:
More power to you, though it sounds like the Asus Transformer is exactly what you want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now where's the fun in just buying it already made if we can design and build it ourselves
Blue6IX said:
Take a look at this:http://www.energizerpowerpacks.com/us/
I have 2 of the XP4001 models, each one is the size of a small usb hard drive. It has two usb ports on it and charges my phone, digital camera, and mp3 player great.
Haven't tried it on the Nook yet...
If I get what you're trying to do, taking apart one of the XP8000 models and going from there might be a good part of the prototype puzzle?
You can find these at office supply stores, more then big box electronics stores.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This looks like a great battery pack. Thanks for the link.
I've been thinking more and reading more on verygreens thread...I'm start to think KISS. Battery pack and USB hub, with one port facing each way(left,right,top,bottom). Then just make a modified camera with the cord eliminated and the plug molded right into its housing. Have opposite ports facing forward and backward at top and bottom to allow for video chat or (very large) camera usage.
Some benifits of this will be more flexibility in hardware, possible use as a simple battery pack for the nook, and MUCH easier designing of the charging/bypass circuits.
Sent from my NookColor using XDA Premium App
Taosaur said:
It took some googling for me to figure out what you were trying to do, but I see now you want to make a hard case that slides over the back of the NC with some hardware integrated.
My main criticism is that the backpack form factor is really optimized for handheld devices, and the NC is already pushing the practical weight for a handheld device. We're looking at easily another 1lb or more with this hardware, rendering it more of a docking station, at which point an actual docking station with a keyboard makes more sense.
Still, if you do want to design a backpack, consider incorporating stands and grips to make it more ergonomic. For instance, you could have fold-out tripod legs, or a picture-frame style easel, and indentations or possibly even finger loops.
Personally, I would prefer a genuine dock to serve as the 'other half of the laptop,' without requiring that the NC be either permanently attached to all that hardware or removed from its primary case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see what you are saying...yeah, if I hold my nook one handed for any length of time...its heavy. As above, I have started thinking about keeping it simple. The hub I have only weighs an ounce or two, once stripped of the housing. The batteries will be the main source of weight/bulk. The charge controller is about dead simple using a picaxe 20x2 chip and very few components. Mostly it will just be a voltage source sensor and switch to transfer to the appropriate power source(battery or USB input).
I guess I haven't ever looked at this as a laptop converter, but rather as a way to complete the picture, by allowing the addition of things like a camera and microphone input that Android was made for.
Sent from my NookColor using XDA Premium App
Syco54645 said:
to make the hooks that go around the side you could use sugru to mold them. i would think that would work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure if sugru will be strong enough. Was thinking more along the lines of custom molded fiberglass. Easy enough, light, damn strong. Mayhaps ill spring for some carbon fiber
@ troyy0206....feel free to work on a seperate design as well. This isn't all about what I want...its about designing something that anyone else can duplicate or modify to their needs. As an EE, you have a leg up on most of us in terms of designing the circuitry. I'm just good at putting parts together.
Sent from my NookColor using XDA Premium App
Related
Now that USBhost works with cm7, we have more options. So, I'm hunting for a case/keyboard/trackpad (or mouse) combo that will turn the NC into a 7" netbook -- using Bluetooth and/or USB.
Does anyone know of any accessory that would handle this pretty well?
Has anyone seen/used this one?
http://www.ankaka.com/tablet-holder...ini-keyboard-for-7-inch-tablet-pc_p47823.html
I should check the 7" GalaxyTab accessories forum. While I've found a few 7" cases for sale around the net, I havent heard/seen any of them mention Nook specifically.
Has anyone had any luck with something like this?
That's totally cool! If you decide to get something like this please post how it works out. I would be in the market for something like that. In fact the low price on the one you linked is tempting me right now.
Yes, that's an excellent find! Should I decide to move to the Iconia Tab A100 in fall, or stick with the Nook Color, I will probably snatch one of those up.
That relies on the keyboard being connected by usb, which the nookcolor doesnt have. Im not sure if an adapter can be used? If it can i'd be quite interested in one myself.
marcboy said:
That relies on the keyboard being connected by usb, which the nookcolor doesnt have. Im not sure if an adapter can be used? If it can i'd be quite interested in one myself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
USB Host support is current being worked on, and keyboards are working provided you pick up an adapter. The question becomes, however, will this work without having to go through a USB powered hub.
Haha, that guy above me didn't know about USB Host support we now have
All kidding aside, you guys know the NC is longer and skinnier than the GTab, right? As in, I'm sot sure that top clasp will bend down enough...maybe with the top and bottom ones bent...
wow that looks kick ass.
lets keep this thread updated with options
ace7196 said:
Haha, that guy above me didn't know about USB Host support we now have
All kidding aside, you guys know the NC is longer and skinnier than the GTab, right? As in, I'm sot sure that top clasp will bend down enough...maybe with the top and bottom ones bent...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that's my primary concern -- making sure the darn NC fits. Of course, my other concern is that the keyboard works in USB host mode without a powered hub.
I'm very close to testing one of these out... maybe a father's day gift to myself? lol
If it does work, I'll probably need to mod it to hold the nook somehow...hmmm...
A thought:
So...maybe get the case, then get a very small hub (smallest ever!), and you can cram the hub between the NC and one of the supports?
Like this? http://www.dealextreme.com/p/mini-usb-4-ports-hub-black-787
If the g/f ends up getting on that (I'm pretty sure is the same minus the dimensions) for her GTab, I'll toss the NC on it. I don't see why a "normal" usb keyboard wouldn't work. The cheapo ones that used to (still do?) come with dells worked without any hub on my NC. My illuminated keyboard and wireless mouse needed the unpowered hub to work for the NC.
Options:
USB:
http://www.amazon.com/HDE-Tablet-Stand-USB-Keyboard/dp/B004OB0EBQ/
http://www.amazon.com/HDE-Tablet-Stand-USB-Keyboard/dp/B004OB0EBQ/
http://www.amazon.com/Digistore-tablet-Protective-leather-Keyboard/dp/B004TJJPG8/
Bluetooth:
http://solidlineproducts.com/galaxy_tab/bluetooth_keyboard_case_galaxy/
http://www.amazon.com/Leather-Housing-Bluetooth-Keyboard-Samsung/dp/B004QE4S7C/
http://www.amazon.com/Portfolio-Built-QWERTY-Keyboard-Samsung/dp/B004OEW8S0/
... I'm getting closer to pulling the trigger on one or two of these for testing purposes...
Just received the HDE 7 w keyboard from amazon.
I didn't receive the micro usb adapter yet to test it with the nook. I did hook it the keyboard to my desktop to do some quick typing tests. However a quick take on it.
Firstly my hands are a bit big, I found the keyboard cramped. I was expecting this to a degree. But am finding it rather easy to click the other buttons. Not much better than the onscreen one, I like the tactical feedback, but my accuracy seems to have declined even further. The feel of the keyboard is good like a laptop keyboard, keys are bit shallow but overall good. I also hadn't noticed but it has the three lock leds for num. caps. and scroll.
The case, it feels good, like leather,and seems relatively padded. The clips to hold the nook in. The bottom two are good. The top is a bit away from the top, and even folding it down didn't help hold it. The clips only cover up the power button, and it's still relatively accessible. Turning it on it's side the nook slid out rather easily. I am thinking of Velcro on the back of the nook to help hold it in place. Once close besides the lack of side clips it feels sturdy and protected.
The magnetic strap that closes the case needs to be pushed behind the cover, by defaults it's in the way of viewing the screen. The back stand seemed to slide very easily and didn't hold it up to well. It kept falling back.
Portability is pretty much gone with this, It makes it about the size of a good hardback. It is not pocket able now, i think it's more due to added thickness.
It's seems like a good case, if your hands aren't overly large, and with a few modifications. The lack of side clips are somewhat problematic. The included stylus as probably know is for resistive screens, but it seems cheap. I will take and post pics later.
^^^ excellent info! Have any updates on how its working out with the nook itself?
I'm gonna try and get the pingtab one, but I can't find an adapter for the weird (hopefully not propriatary?) USB connector the Nook has. Anybody know where to get one?
Hmm, actually, do I need to be looking for a powered hub?
Requia said:
I'm gonna try and get the pingtab one, but I can't find an adapter for the weird (hopefully not propriatary?) USB connector the Nook has. Anybody know where to get one?
Hmm, actually, do I need to be looking for a powered hub?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lots of great info regarding USB host mode here, including info on the required adapters:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1105497
Ok, I have the mentioned keyboard/case combo*, though not the adapter (a twitchy one click finger made me buy the wrong one**), so I can't test the case just yet. It does however, kit the Nook perfectly. Unfortunately, it wasn't designed to hold a tablet in place when you hold the case like a book, only when it's used as a netbook. This also means the nook might not stay inside the case when carrying the case around without careful handling, so it's velcro time despite being the exact right size.
The USB cord could stand to be a tad longer, but I think I'll be happier in the long run using an extension cable when I want to hold the nook outside the case while typing.
The bulky standard USB tip gets in the way of closing the case with the nook inside, which means I'm going to have to let the cord hang out.
I suspect that the keyboard has a watch battery or similar inside, as the USB seems too thin to have a full 4 wires. This might be a problem in terms of long term durability, as I won't be able to get to the battery without unstitching or cutting the case, but it was 20$, so if it lasts 2 years and dies it'll still be a great value.
Edit1: The stylus is not a capacitive stylus, so no good with the nook, not terribly surprised.
All in all, this is highly usable and should work well with the nook (after I get the adapter), but it'd be 10x nicer with minor tweaks (a microUSB instead of a full sized, and a couple extra tabs so the tablet is held in 4 directions).
*I still can't post links, but paleh0rse posted it above, its the Digistore-tablet-Protective-leather-Keyboard one.
**Anybody know any national chain stores that might have the right adapter and aren't Radio Shack?
Anyone get one working?
@soulnothing just received the same (HDE 7" off Amazon)
and used it with a u -> USB adapter. No joy. Anyone else had any luck with this? Would assume it required a powered hub. Dang, so much for compact....
Do these exist for any device?
I don't know why you couldn't have a case that allows for the installation of an SD card while allowing you to physically mount your device within it..so everything looks flush, even if it makes your device an extra 1/2" long or w/e.
I'd never thought of that before. That's a rather clever idea; a case that is also a dock, perhaps. I suppose the various iphone battery cases are similar in execution, but since it is usb OTG, the opportunities are a lot more interesting with Android.
I think it would be awesome IF OTG didn't require root & stickmount. I doubt most accessory makers are going to go through the trouble of serving such a small market. Yes, most people at XDA will root, but we are probably less than 1% of the market.
I was thinking this too but have little hope we will see something come to market. I'm gonna order a few thick cases and see if I have room to cut out a spot for a lil built in microusb reader and think otg cable.
It would be nice if some manufacturer made a USB otg case with a battery built in also. Make it the ultimate media device, but able to shed the extra bulk whenever by simply removing the case.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
You have to consider that using USB host uses some extra battery, so even if you aren't using any USB ports but have the case on it might decrease battery life.
omg
i just thought of this.
i took it a bit further tho.
having charging capabilities would be wonderfull
my thread
you beat me by a few hours
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1792704
I would just be happy with a good case that has a backup battery built in, I would also like one of those for my galaxy s2. Why do they only make those for the iPhone ? Does apple own the patent or something?!
proud_whovian said:
I would just be happy with a good case that has a backup battery built in, I would also like one of those for my galaxy s2. Why do they only make those for the iPhone ? Does apple own the patent or something?!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apple owns the patent on the rectangle & the touch screen. And they're all lawyered up........be afraid.
I think what I'll end up doing is trying my hand at tearing apart an OTG cable and connecting with one of these:
http://www.usbfirewire.com/usb_cables_a_to_micro-b_up_angled_a_to_up_angled_micro_b_64.html
http://www.usbfirewire.com/usb_cables_a_to_micro-b_down_angled_a_to_down_angled_micro_b_66.html
http://www.theandroidsmartphone.com...-i9100-galaxy-s-ii-2-gt-n7000-galaxy-note.htm
Still not as low profile as I'd like, but if I can get a hard case with a little thickness, I might be able to make it look like 1 piece. It's not perfect, but it might be the best we've got (unless somebody already makes an OTG cable with an elbow). Be nice if I can peal back the rubber and expose just the plug and then set it up with a flat ribbon cable or something straight to an SD card.
It's amazing we can fit a bluetooth radio into the USB port and hardly add anything size wize, but looking for a microusb cable that's very low profile turns up nothing fruitful. . . Anybody know where to find bare microusb connectors?
Edit: Hmmmmm. . . http://www.foxlink.com/_en/2_product/2pro_detail.php?ID=137
Ive seen posts about the usb cords/dongles that you can use to connect any usb device to ur tablet,
if any case manufactures are listening, maybe you can make a semi hard case that has this functionality built it. kinda like the battery cases you see for iphone, but without the crappy large battery
while retaining charging capabilities....
1. with usb connection built into the case, to plug in a thumb drive, or any other device.
2. with built in 32gb or 64 gb into the case, and with charging capability's.
3. with built in rear facing camera
many people would buy any of these, or possibly one with all of the above
i dont have the motivation or knowledge to get something like this rolling, but im sure it would be a hit with the nexus 7 crowds because we have limited storage.
just saying, i would like to know what other people think...
and if any manufactures to decide to use my idea, please send me a demo to review since used my idea
From a modding perspective I can already think of several ways for this to be achieved pretty easily (minus the camera, I don't really know those too well). If you're comfortable with a soldering iron and have a bunch of time on your hands, most of these things can be achieved pretty cheaply.
Would love to see/build/buy this.
(brainstorm activated)
No company will make these because people are already crying about a 40$ tag price for a quality case. All they want is to pay 5$... With these features the price is gonna be too high for alot of people.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
I wonder if you could use the pogo connectors to get USB OTG to work for more storage?
I thought about this Saturday morning minus the camera. I might have to build a prototype and put it on kick starter. I wish that I had a partner, I have a few ideas how to build it. I guess I need moral support lol.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
sadoway said:
Ive seen posts about the usb cords/dongles that you can use to connect any usb device to ur tablet,
if any case manufactures are listening, maybe you can make a semi hard case that has this functionality built it. kinda like the battery cases you see for iphone, but without the crappy large battery
while retaining charging capabilities....
1. with usb connection built into the case, to plug in a thumb drive, or any other device.
2. with built in 32gb or 64 gb into the case, and with charging capability's.
3. with built in rear facing camera
many people would buy any of these, or possibly one with all of the above
i dont have the motivation or knowledge to get something like this rolling, but im sure it would be a hit with the nexus 7 crowds because we have limited storage.
just saying, i would like to know what other people think...
and if any manufactures to decide to use my idea, please send me a demo to review since used my idea
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why a rear camera? nothing looks lamer than someone taking a picture with a bulky tablet. thats what your phone is for.
I always thought Cameras were for taking pictures?
IIIPowerIII said:
No company will make these because people are already crying about a 40$ tag price for a quality case. All they want is to pay 5$... With these features the price is gonna be too high for alot of people.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A case with these capabilities is much different than a flap of material made in china.
add in extra battery haha. The Nexus Galaxy has the Hyperion case. If you made something similar for the nexus 7 and attach a micro USB to it. I would buy it. I dont need the extra battery power, but why waste extra space.
http://www.amazon.com/Hyperion-Rech...UTF8&colid=YT73S9A1ZS7X&coliid=I37XIVYNH3HLTI
Cont'd
I'd like a "case" with these features in the following order
1. OTG USB Hub
2. Stand of some sort
3. Full Size SD Card Slot
4. Extra battery
5. Decent Speakers (extra bass when in standing position)
6. 3G/4G module (like the IPOD to IPhone case, or perhaps a MiFi, or optional USB stick)
7. Built in battery charger
8. Keyboard
9. Camera
10. Solar Cell for charging
Cost = more expensive than the tablet but I'd still buy it
That is called a netbook! Hehehe! Peace!
I bought this tablet so that I didn't have all the bells and whistles and found I've used it so much more than the TF101 I have now sold. If I wanted all of those features in a case, I would have stuck with my original tablet .
Maybe I'm alone on this one... but I love that less is more and a case like that seems far too niche/defeats the purpose of the Nexus 7.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
Sorry you are behind. I bought two cases and I built in the otg cable and a 16GB flash drive into the case ad well and will be adding a small switch to build in a hub on the side for more USB on the side.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
cmsjr123 said:
Sorry you are behind. I bought two cases and I built in the otg cable and a 16GB flash drive into the case ad well and will be adding a small switch to build in a hub on the side for more USB on the side.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Post some pics! I've had this idea rattling around in my head for a couple weeks, just not enough initiative to do anything about it.
neilrl79 said:
Post some pics! I've had this idea rattling around in my head for a couple weeks, just not enough initiative to do anything about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would like a bit more info on this as well.
cmsjr123 said:
Sorry you are behind. I bought two cases and I built in the otg cable and a 16GB flash drive into the case ad well and will be adding a small switch to build in a hub on the side for more USB on the side.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which parts did you use to make this? I am unsure on what case would be suitable as well as the OTG cable. I would think you would want one as thin as possible as well as a USB type hub to allow charging
I would like a bit more info
I am an experienced leather worker and have created many cases for tables. 3 for my mexus 7. if you have any more concrete ideas (drawings) and find someone to do the electronic work I can do anythingyou may need.
I can upload pics of some of my work if you want.
Androidrew said:
Why a rear camera? nothing looks lamer than someone taking a picture with a bulky tablet. thats what your phone is for.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with you, but a rear camera would be nice for adding pictures to notes during a seminar, lecture or presentation.
FWIW, my grandma prefers her iPad for pictures because she can see the people and frame the picture better than a 3" screen on a point and shoot.
Back to the topic, I'd be in for an Otterbox type with the camera, SD card (can always convert micro to normal), and extra battery to drive the accessories would be a great kickstarter project. Leather would be a great bonus. The challenge would keeping the entire package small.
Would be an interesting project on a 3D printer.
This is something I was thinking about this i ot my tab. Except for the rear cam, this is for myself. Cause I am so piss off of those micro USB that so fragile. Broke already 2 OTG cables and one charger cable (don't had the cables I broke for my phone). After have to be realistic, battery expansion and rear cam would be too big and also expensive. For a 7" tab that only cost $250.
Also have to think about the jack plug that is not so far from the USB. Problem is that with all of it no manufacturer would produce it, not enough margin even if people could buy it about $50/60 non-leather case. But still hope to can find something like that one day ^^. Only way I see it to become real would be to regroup a certain amount of people (a thousand at least), having someone able to design it, then issue a call for tender. sweet dream ^^
A quick video in action...
[size=+1]Modded Joystick Joypad for Google Nexus 7 [/size]
See Attached Images...
I modded this "Oregon Scientific Meep! Tablet Joystick" to use for the Nexus 7.
Issues to address/mod:
1) Meep has USB Mini Male Connection
2) Overall internal dimensions are too big for the N7
3) Color looks too kiddy
The Meep! came with a male USB Mini connector, so I had to make a cable with - USB Micro B male (nexus7 Side) --> USB mini A female (joystick input) - while using a piece of network cable to extend the overall length for the connection. I also used plasti dip rubberized coating to make the joystick black. Foam adhesive weather-seal helped secure the device and took up excessive space that the larger Meep! tablet occupies. You can rotate it 180 degrees and the tablet will not budge inside and it also feels very safe inside
Why Make This?:
I did this because there is nothing physically integrated (unless you pay $499 for a wikipad) and using a separate joystick is kind of a pain if your laying on the couch or in bed. I needed something to accommodate lazy ass mode. Granted it is limited to 4 direction buttons on the left and 4 push buttons on the right, you can still use the on screen buttons if more are needed. I'm usually on emu's most of the time so it suits my needs... Maybe if there is a large interest in the community, someone with manufacturing capabilities will make something like the WikiPad joystick for our 7" form factors with SixAxis like abilities... Until then, I had to mod one...
Project cost: $7.67 ($20 best buy reward card and many parts from the garage)
Minimum Cost: $~30.00 (if you don't have any parts on hand or discount cards)
Any Interests on a How To?:
If it strikes an interest please reply and I'll share the mod details and requirements. Don't feel like posting a tutorial right now if nobody is curious. I consider it to be a lightly-moderate level project. I'm sure this will also work for other 7" form factors like the Galaxy Tab and Kindle Fire, but I have not seen their cable configurations, so I would have to have look at one beforehand.
- Mark
..
A quick video in action...
[size=+1]Modded Joystick Joypad for Google Nexus 7 [/size]
$30 for everything or in addition to the pad?
The Pad looks to be about $25 from Best Buy:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Oregon-...lets/6456833.p?id=1218747934641&skuId=6456833
Does the Pad even fit in the unit? Or does the only modification require foam weather stripping and a M-microUSB>F-miniUSB? Because I have a Female Mini > Male Micro Adapter already: http://www.amazon.com/Motorola-Mini-USB-Micro-USB-Charger-Adapter/dp/B0018L4GOQ
I'm also curious about how the buttons feel. Do you have any issues with fine tweaks to the dpad and do the buttons have a solid feels? Doesn't seem too bad of a price for a unit like this that only needs a few minor tweaks to get working. I don't know if my cable would work because of the way the tablet sits in the unit. Probably require a 90 degree micro adapter.
$30 total.
A 90 degree otg is needed in order to fit properly. The inner casing was recessed to allow the otg connector to sit in and allow the device to center itself. Also, the cable was extended to allow the joystick port to reach the tablet. I soldered in a spare piece of network cable. A short cable will not work, without being extended.
Personally I've enjoyed using it so far. It feels more engaging to have the device your hands with the use of physical buttons.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Seems pretty simple and would probably be a cake walk if someone made a 3" 90 OTG cable.
I believe there are some cable retailers that probably have one, but the price is $12-15. I found it easier/cheaper to make one with $3.00 worth of cable from eBay. Not difficult, just a little tedious because of the wire sizes.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
thanks for posting this. Although I wish the meep had more buttons, I have been on the lookout for something just like this for a while now.
Same here
Anyone find anything with more buttons or 2 analog sticks?
Submit this to kickstarter. Refine the design to perfectly fit the Nexus 7 (slide in like the Wikipad) and add a few buttons (mainly shoulder buttons).
Should be no problem to pledge the needed funds. The Nexus 7 sells very good and I estimate 30% of all Nexus 7 users are interested in this.
I have been looking for something like this. If there was a kickstarter project for this i would donate...
What is the port on the Joypad. You said it has a cable with a Male MiniUSB. Is it Full USB>Mini?
I'm trying to figure out how to make just 1 cable go from the N7 to the Joypad.
[EDIT]
Looks like the Joypad has a miniUSB in the middle of the unit point UP where the tablet would normally "dock". I can't find a 1 cable solution that would be perfect for this. Looks like splicing is the only option at this point.
You would need a Female Mini > Male Micro
I emailed NYKO about manufacturing a cradle style gamepad with updated buttons (analog sticks, and triggers - like a wikipad) and sent them a vid link. Hopefully they respond and give me their thoughts.
They have the manufacturing capabilities and already some current joysticks that feature all the remaining buttons we're looking for. I'm sure they can sell it at a lower cost than an kickstarter could, just my thought tho...
I also have a sixaxis,xb360, and a Logitech.... overall I enjoy the cradle style better than a separate controller for several reasons: no need for a stand, your hands grip the device and the screen is always located in line with controls, and you can sit/lay in virtually any position without worrying about the screen tipping over or adjusting your position. The device and controls feel integrated and as one unit. In other words, my n64 consumption has gone up and sleep has gone down.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
hey man, it's an awesome idea, could you post a tutorial how to do it? I've been looking for a perfect gamepad solution and this looks like it is!
Is there still no after market solution like this for sale. Sometime is missing out on making a million bucks. I would easily buy one of these for $50 for my n7
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using Tapatalk
To the OP. The way you have it set up, does the Nexus sit in front of the male mini usb plug that is attached to the case?
+1
Hi to all! I made the same joystick mod and... It's AWESOME!
But I have a little issue - system recognise joystick as keyboard. It is normal?
For setup keys i use USB BT Joystick Center.
I second the request for a tutorial on how to make this. I have found the pad and would love this mod.
Is it plug in play or what settings must be tweaked in order to make this happen?
Hey everyone, I've grown tired of waiting for Asus/Google to release a dock for my nexus 7 so I built one myself. I'd like to share my work with you all.
I cut my dock out of 6.0mm thick acrylic with a 30W CO2 laser. Cutting all the pieces for one dock takes around 9 min on my machine (more watts=faster cuts). If you have access to a laser this is a very easy job. Maybe you could go use one at your local tech shop or something. The dock consists of 5 pieces that snap together and stay that way by virtue of friction. You could probably cut this design out of wood instead of plastic like I did here. That might look kinda cool.
I bought the acrylic sheet I cut the pieces out of as scrap from a local plastic store (TAP Plastics) for US$1.
The pogo pins I used are manufacturer part# 0933-0-15-20-75-14-11-0 made by Mill Max, purchased from newark.com for $1.20 each. I use bluetooth for audio so I didn't wire up the two middle stereo out pins, so my BOM comes to a grand total of US$3.40. I'm happy with the result for that price.
The dock works great. The device recognizes the dock and begins to charge first time, every time I seat the device. I've tried to avoid blocking any of the speaker grills, plugs, microphones light sensors and cameras. Unfortunately my dock does kinda block the ambient noise microphone that's right next to the pogo pin pads (stupid spot to put that).
For now I've just soldered pogo pins 1 and 4 to a 5v charger I had laying around. So charging works great.
EDIT: I'm working on making a PCB that supports:
-- stereo audio out via 1/4 in headphone jack
-- Micro USB B connector for charging
Stay tuned here for an updated parts list and schematic and PCB layout files.
As reported elsewhere on the forum, I can confirm that the device stops drawing current via the pogo pins when a USB OTG cable is plugged in (although the device still indicates that it is charging in the menu bar, seems to be a bug). So pogo pin charging while using USB OTG seems to be a no-go (pun intended!). Update: this may be fixable with a modified kernel.
I expect a 1st party dock will come out very soon since the OS software is now ready for it. Several of the features added by recent updates seem to be aimed directly at dock mode (Daydream, portrait home screen) and they work great (the daydream screensaver auto-starts properly when docked).
I'll attach some pictures of the docks I made. I made 3, two out of white and one out of black plastic. I like the black one better although the glossy acrylic in black is a fingerprint magnet.
I created the design files using the free Autocad clone software called Draftsight. I'll attach it here so anyone who wants to can get out and cut themselves a charging dock for their favorite tablet. The units for the drawing are mm. The drawing format is autocad 2010 ascii dxf.
If you do try to use my design to cut your own dock, be aware that the tolerances on the two curved side pieces are very tight to ensure that the other three pieces fit in snugly enough to hold everything together. If the cut width for your laser differs greatly from mine, you might end up with a dock that doesn't snap together or one that is loose and falls apart. Don't say I didn't warn you! In the case your dock doesn't fit together properly, you can make some very simple tweaks to the inside cuts on the side pieces to get things to go together for your laser.
The design will need some major adjustments if you use anything other than 6mm thick stock. The holes in the side pieces will need to change as will the width and possibly position of the slot in the cradle piece.
Be aware that it's actually pretty easy to put the dock together incorrectly (design flaw). There are 4 assembly possibilities that change the locations of the pogo pin holes, three of them are wrong. You'll figure that one out easily enough. The one that is tricky is the cradle piece (H-shaped piece) which is basically two rails that create a slot between them that the device rests in. If you look closely, you'll notice that the slot is not exactly centered in the piece making one rail ever so slightly thicker than the other. The thinner rail should be towards the front of the dock (there are only two ways you can assemble this part so you have a %50-%50 chance of getting this wrong if you're not careful here). If you get this wrong the device won't lean up against the back rests so it will be very unstable and will sit very awkwardly in the dock.
Cheers!
p.s. I'm happy to help anyone out who wants to try making their own dock. Ask away and I'll do my best to answer any questions.
Excellent work there. It's always great to see XDA member's ingenuity at work
Nice work I'm also in the process of finishing up my dock also..
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
do you have the design file you used to create this?
are you willing to share it? i have access to a laser cutter where i work and would quite like to make myself one of these
what program did u do your design in?
do you have the design file you used to create this?
are you willing to share it? i have access to a laser cutter where i work and would quite like to make myself one of these .
Click to expand...
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Everything is written in the first post ...
I created the design files using the free Autocad clone software called Draftsight. I'll attach them here so anyone who wants to can get out and cut themselves a charging dock for their favorite tablet. Unfortunately, these attachments are going to have to wait for ~12 hours because I seem to have forgotten the design files on another computer.
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I wait for the design-files too - that is a pretty project you put up there !
Michael
Thanks for the designs - will try to get it lasered the next weeks. When done, i will post some pictures !
Michael
sammy98 said:
Thanks for the designs - will try to get it lasered the next weeks. When done, i will post some pictures !
Michael
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Awesome! Looking forward to it!
Cheers mate.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=34708256#post34708256
That is my first draft of a dock i was just going to just print out on a 3d printer, but its proving difficult to get access to it as i though i was going to lol. I think i'm just going to go convert my design to somethin similar to yours where i can use the waterjet and cut out a bunch o acrylic. Thanks for the inspiration.
Quick design intent question:
Why did you leave so much room (.5" ish) on the sides of the tablet, doesn't this force you to sit there and find the right positioning so it will interface correctly with the pogos.
Also in my post is a nexus 7 file i created if anyone wants to model it against that, its so much easier to just model an offset.
---------- Post added at 07:22 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:13 PM ----------
PS, what tolerances did you incorporate into your mating parts?
bossman137 said:
Cheers mate.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=34708256#post34708256
That is my first draft of a dock i was just going to just print out on a 3d printer, but its proving difficult to get access to it as i though i was going to lol. I think i'm just going to go convert my design to somethin similar to yours where i can use the waterjet and cut out a bunch o acrylic. Thanks for the inspiration.
Quick design intent question:
Why did you leave so much room (.5" ish) on the sides of the tablet, doesn't this force you to sit there and find the right positioning so it will interface correctly with the pogos.
Also in my post is a nexus 7 file i created if anyone wants to model it against that, its so much easier to just model an offset.
---------- Post added at 07:22 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:13 PM ----------
PS, what tolerances did you incorporate into your mating parts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do think it would be possible to bring the feet/side pieces in closer so that they define where the tablet would rest in the up-down (relative to tablet) degree of freedom. That could be be better than what I have done, but I'm not sure. Try it and let us know!
By moving the side pieces right next to the top and bottom of the tablet you would have to eliminate the connections between the two rails on the cradle (H-shaped) piece to make room. I like those connections because they:
1) precisely define the width of the groove that the tablet sits in
2) limit the up-down (relative to tablet) degree of freedom so there's no guess work as to where the proper docking position is (but you'd be taking care of this with the side pieces)
3) provide some additional stiffness/strength to the cradle piece
Beautiful done!
I tried making a small PCB with the pogo pins just to test if it indeed would charge and give me sound out, before i'd even bother drawing up a dock, but on mine, it just charges, there is no sound output, and it does not ask me to use the pogo pins for sound output. Running 4.1.2
I guess you're running 4,2 since you get that menu popup ?
// Per.
zapro said:
Beautiful done!
I tried making a small PCB with the pogo pins just to test if it indeed would charge and give me sound out, before i'd even bother drawing up a dock, but on mine, it just charges, there is no sound output, and it does not ask me to use the pogo pins for sound output. Running 4.1.2
I guess you're running 4,2 since you get that menu popup ?
// Per.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Audio out via the pogo pins was introduced in 4.2.
OK. Won't be upgrading anytime soon with all the bugs.
//Per.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Here is it, just gotta have it all cut out, thanks for the idea mate.
zapro said:
Beautiful done!
I tried making a small PCB with the pogo pins just to test if it indeed would charge and give me sound out, before i'd even bother drawing up a dock, but on mine, it just charges, there is no sound output, and it does not ask me to use the pogo pins for sound output. Running 4.1.2
I guess you're running 4,2 since you get that menu popup ?
// Per.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. I was running 4.2 the popup was annoying. The 4.2.1 update eliminates it!
Although I still get a volume spike while docking/undocking while playing music over bluetooth.
bossman137 said:
Here is it, just gotta have it all cut out, thanks for the idea mate.
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Hey, that looks pretty cool!
I might raise the height of the front piece there so the lip comes up in front of the tablet a little higher. You don't want the tablet popping out while you're tapping on the top of the screen. Also note that your back piece will partially cover your speaker grill, but that's probably NBD.
Ta Da, works great, I'll plug in the audio and power soon. I purposely designed the front to barely reach over its very closely calculated tolerances and that puppy aint coming out accidently
bossman137 said:
Ta Da, works great, I'll plug in the audio and power soon. I purposely designed the front to barely reach over its very closely calculated tolerances and that puppy aint coming out accidently
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Very nice!! Any chance you can share your model with us?
bossman137 said:
Ta Da, works great, I'll plug in the audio and power soon. I purposely designed the front to barely reach over its very closely calculated tolerances and that puppy aint coming out accidently
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Click to collapse
That is one sweet looking stand you got yourself there. If I had the means to cut one out myself I would certainly do it.
jonnyg1097 said:
That is one sweet looking stand you got yourself there. If I had the means to cut one out myself I would certainly do it.
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snyluc13 said:
Very nice!! Any chance you can share your model with us?
Click to expand...
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Yes, please share...
www.newark.com/mill-max/0933-0-15-2...pin-2a/dp/83R7486?Ntt=0933-0-15-20-75-14-11-0
Here is the link to the pogo pins. Just thought that I would save some people some time.