Looking for rugged case with usb-port protection/integration - Nexus 7 Accessories

I'm thinking of using the Nexus 7 as a tool for working in a warehouse with picking/packing/inventory etc. For this I need to use a barcode scanner connected to the USB port via an OTG cable. To make this solution less fragile I would need a case that protects the microUSB port by building an extra inch or so, or even better, a case that connects directly to it and provides a full size USB port (I've never seen anything like that though).
Anyone got any tips? I would consider using another device if I found something usable in this area... And I would consider buying a 3D printer and doing something myself if they weren't so expensive, hehe

Related

Looking for good plain case and (possibly) keyboard case

Recently bought a Nook Color, and already have a 32GB microSD card for it and have a pack of anti-glare screen protectors coming in on Saturday. I'm looking to add a plain case and a keyboard case (if possible) to complete my "accessory" set for it.
For the plain case, I'm just looking for something along the lines of the Otterbox Commuter case for it - something that will look nice and be able to protect it should it fall; I want to comfortably carry it on the street and not worry if it falls out of my hands. Just wondering, though - is it worth ~$40? I don't care about it covering the microSD card slot (I don't intend on removing it much), I'm just talking purely about protection and whether there's a better case for the price that would offer a similar level of protection. I don't need a "folio-type" case that will actually cover the screen, and I'd actually prefer that it isn't.
As for the keyboard case, I'm looking at something like this:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004OB0EBQ/
And I remember seeing one with a microUSB connector at the end, but I can't find it at the moment. Anyway, I'm wondering if there's such a keyboard case that would work via USB with the Nook Color (and if there's anything specific I need to do in terms of software - I have CM7.2 on it right now), since I've read that certain such devices won't work without a powered USB hub, and I'd rather not deal with that. I'm not too interested in Bluetooth keyboard cases both due to price and the hassle of Bluetooth (pairing, battery life, etc.), but if somebody knows of a cheap one that works well with the Nook Color then I'd be very interested.
Thanks!
I too have given up on bluetooth keyboards and I'm using this case:
http://www.caseyfrennier.com/nook-color-keyboard-case/
I like it. I've dropped it a few times too. On carpet though.
Peoplephobic said:
I too have given up on bluetooth keyboards and I'm using this case:
http://www.caseyfrennier.com/nook-color-keyboard-case/
I like it. I've dropped it a few times too. On carpet though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found that case here, with a microUSB plug (meaning the miniUSB plug and converter is unnecessary):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/170783937772
Great to know that it only requires an app to work. Think I might go with that and the Otterbox, since it seems like it should still fit according to the specs.
Nobody makes a micro usb female to usb male adapter that I've found so you won't be able to use that keyboard and a mouse and usb drive using a usb hub.
Good find though.
Peoplephobic said:
Nobody makes a micro usb female to usb male adapter that I've found so you won't be able to use that keyboard and a mouse and usb drive using a usb hub.
Good find though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought about that (after I bought it =P), but I don't even have a wired mouse at the moment, or the need to plug in a flash drive. Just the keyboard plugged in is fine for me.
So I finally received the case this week and I've been using it a bit...I love it. My only two complaints are that it doesn't hold it well enough to prevent it from slipping out on the sides, and that the Nook Tweaks app to enable USB host doesn't always work properly (might have to re-enable settings and refresh a few times) - but certainly not a dealbreaker.
I'm still looking for a decent regular case, though, as the Otterbox is kinda pricey at ~$45.
magus57 said:
My only two complaints are that it doesn't hold it well enough to prevent it from slipping out on the sides, and that the Nook Tweaks app to enable USB host doesn't always work properly (might have to re-enable settings and refresh a few times) - but certainly not a dealbreaker.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which case are you talking about here? Just for complete clarity, so I know what not to get.
--bornagainpenguin
bornagainpenguin said:
Which case are you talking about here? Just for complete clarity, so I know what not to get.
--bornagainpenguin
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The one I linked to:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/170783937772
From what I understand, the full-size USB version that can be bought on Amazon is identical in the way it holds the tablet. Again, I certainly wouldn't call it a dealbreaker especially since you can probably make some DIY straps to hold it better or something.
eBay has lots of cases. Got mine from a seller named letsshopdirect. $10 shipped. Whoo.
I bought a keyboard case, even with Nook Tweaks app and both USB settings checked, it wont work with my NC. I know its not the keyboard, cuz it works with other tablets. What am I doing wrong?
Oh, this may help: http://www.ebay.com/itm/310961491593?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649 its the link to the listing on ebay for my keyboard
I've used a universal case from Walmart which has yet to fail me.
Sent from my Touchpad using XDA Free mobile app

Case with built-in OTG

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

[Concept] Case w/ built in OTG/Rear Camera/Memory/SD Slot

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 ^^

[Q] Using dock with Otterbox case

I would like to use my Note 2 with the samsung dock (link to product) but use the Otterbox Defender case (and using the phone without this is not an option due to two small children and their propensity to drop expensive electronics). I was wondering if something like this: link to product would work... What I'm concerned about is that there may be additional points on the Micro USB connector in the phone and adapter which allows for video transmission. If anyone has any insight regarding this I'd love to hear your thoughts
Problem you might run into is that you might need a 5pin to 11pin adaptor (maybe 2 of them actually) so not sure but if so then its not so practical

Any place to buy the official Nexus 7 USB Cable by itself?

I have another microUSB cable but it slips out sometimes, and doesn't charge the Nexus 7 unless you hold it at certain angles. If anyone can point me in the direction of getting a replacement ASUS micro USB cable like the one that comes with the Nexus 7, or even one that people have found is a snug fit with their devices,and isn't prone to falling out, please let me know. Thanks for the help.
You don't say where you are but if you can find something like this you should be fine. http://www.amazon.co.uk/LINDY-Degre...26&sr=8-3&keywords=micro+usb+lead+right+angle
Good length and the right angle plug make it less likely to catch on things.
Troute,
Do you use this with your Nexus 7? Because I've heard that some microUSB cables' pins on the connector aren't long enough to reach into the Nexus 7's and that's why the microUSB cable I'm using now is so flimsy. Do you know anything about that?
Theoretically It must work, because the OTG cable we are using is micro USB B to USB female.
I think some people must got their cable from a bad store that cause the defect you're talking about
I use whatever lead is handy and have had no problems but I avoid buying cheap chinese ones. Problems can be caused by a combination of badly made/loose plug and a loose socket

Categories

Resources