So I've been looking for a nice desktop dock for the Aria so I can use it on my nightstand at night while charging. I don't like laying it flat on my nightstand cause having the speaker against the surface muffles the speaker, and I use it as an alarm clock most nights. I scoured about, but there aren't a lot of Aria specific accessories. Finally while searching google for "htc hd mini cradle" or something of the like I ran across this:
(i can't post links cause I'm new to xda, so you'll have to copy and paste it to your browser)
shop.htcpedia.com/index.php?dispatch=products.view&product_id=996&compability_product=447
Looks nice, and it even SAYS it works with the Aria. That makes me wonder why it never showed up on my searches looking for Aria specific stuff... the picture has an Aria sitting in it lol. I ordered it up, and it wasn't as cheap as I would have liked. Came out to about $38 after shipping. I'll let you all know how I like it once it arrives early this week.
I got EXACTLY the same item on Ebay for $9 (plus $4 for shipping). It took about a week for it to arrive from Hong Kong.
There is a bright blue LED that light up when you place the phone in the craddle. When plugged, Aria sits snug and secure. There is an additional USB cable that can be plugged into PC for syncing.
Aha, $9. Nice find. I don't think the blue LED is that bright at all.
when i was looking for a dock i saw the one that you all are talking about and found this one and i think it looks better and it only 16.99 so i bought it, it was a while ago about a month
I saw a few that charge an extra battery. That wasn't what I was looking for though. Just wanted something small, weighted, and functional.
Gorilla800lbs said:
I got EXACTLY the same item on Ebay for $9 (plus $4 for shipping). It took about a week for it to arrive from Hong Kong.
There is a bright blue LED that light up when you place the phone in the craddle. When plugged, Aria sits snug and secure. There is an additional USB cable that can be plugged into PC for syncing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi mate,
I have a Zagg invisishield (front and back) on the way for my Aria, I'd like to get a dock, but from your observations would you say its too tight already. Have I got no chance getting it into the dock with the shield on?
Sorry it took me awhile to get back to this thread!
I inspected the gaps between my Aria and the dock's cradle.
Obviosly, ZAGG film on the front is not creating any issues -- I have one myself! The film on the back could be more nuanced. The sides and the back have enough gap, however the bottom of the phone (where the micro USB port is) could be an issue. I tried wrapping two strips of brown-bag paper around the bottom of my phone, and it still goes into craddle securely and the USB port makes a solid connection.
However, we know that ZAGG film becomes a little bit "sticky" under warm conditions. I am not certain if the warmness of the battery and tight contact between the film on the phone and the dock may cause the film to stick just a little bit, which would make it be pulled away from the phone every time you're undocking it. Hopefully, this will not be an issue, so I would encourage you to try.
Wow I thank you for informative reply. I didn't expect you to go to so much effort.
It is a great help, I think I might get one and try. Thanks mate.
Gorilla800lbs said:
Sorry it took me awhile to get back to this thread!
I inspected the gaps between my Aria and the dock's cradle.
Obviosly, ZAGG film on the front is not creating any issues -- I have one myself! The film on the back could be more nuanced. The sides and the back have enough gap, however the bottom of the phone (where the micro USB port is) could be an issue. I tried wrapping two strips of brown-bag paper around the bottom of my phone, and it still goes into craddle securely and the USB port makes a solid connection.
However, we know that ZAGG film becomes a little bit "sticky" under warm conditions. I am not certain if the warmness of the battery and tight contact between the film on the phone and the dock may cause the film to stick just a little bit, which would make it be pulled away from the phone every time you're undocking it. Hopefully, this will not be an issue, so I would encourage you to try.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my HTC Liberty using XDA App
Gorilla800lbs said:
Sorry it took me awhile to get back to this thread!
I inspected the gaps between my Aria and the dock's cradle.
Obviosly, ZAGG film on the front is not creating any issues -- I have one myself! The film on the back could be more nuanced. The sides and the back have enough gap, however the bottom of the phone (where the micro USB port is) could be an issue. I tried wrapping two strips of brown-bag paper around the bottom of my phone, and it still goes into craddle securely and the USB port makes a solid connection.
However, we know that ZAGG film becomes a little bit "sticky" under warm conditions. I am not certain if the warmness of the battery and tight contact between the film on the phone and the dock may cause the film to stick just a little bit, which would make it be pulled away from the phone every time you're undocking it. Hopefully, this will not be an issue, so I would encourage you to try.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Gorilla800lbs, I found your information to be very useful. I have a different kind of back case and its really think... probably 1mm or slightly more..... do you think the phone will dock with this case attached?
Thanks for the ebay link, I ordered one too
This is cool, I going to get it. Thanks for the find. Looks really big, but it's all good.
damn ive been looking for one of these now time to search e bay lol
thanks to all who posted
Is the build quality of the ebay one nice?
wiithepeng said:
Is the build quality of the ebay one nice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is EXACTLY my concern. I know China manufacturers like to skimp on quality and workmanship sometimes. Often they will have counterfeit components and can cause serious issues with electronics. (I've replaced many a Taiwanese counterfeit capacitor)
Nothing against the nationality, just against build quality.
Can anyone vouch for it?
yeah i hope anyone can verify this, so that i can buy this right away!
how difference with micro usb cable? i think it's work the same thing, charge+sync.
There have been a lot of complaints about the flimsy connector for the Xoom charger. I also think that it is a very poor design at most. The metal pin is too long, the plastic part is poking out too much etc.
I am no engineer and also bad at drawing but I attached something that I think might work. If anyone feels like they could produce a prototype that would be awesome!
The small magnet might or might not work. If you look at the area where all the connectors are you will see a small metal plate that could probably be used to anchor the connector magnetically.
Any feedback is appreciated (even just to say that I am full of sh!t!)
UPDATE: I added an alternative design using the two metal connectors for charging and a silicone plug to keep the connectors in place. A magnet will give additional stability.
funnycreature said:
There have been a lot of complaints about the flimsy connector for the Xoom charger. I also think that it is a very poor design at most. The metal pin is too long, the plastic part is poking out too much etc.
I am no engineer and also bad at drawing but I attached something that I think might work. If anyone feels like they could produce a prototype that would be awesome!
The small magnet might or might not work. If you look at the area where all the connectors are you will see a small metal plate that could probably be used to anchor the connector magnetically.
Any feedback is appreciated (even just to say that I am full of sh!t!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It charges my Xoom very fast. It is still working and has not caused me any issues. If it breaks, I will come back here to *****.
I was just referring to the connector but thanks for the warning
funnycreature said:
I was just referring to the connector but thanks for the warning
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So was I. The stock one works fine however, alternatives are great as well. I just do not see a need for one personally. Others may.
Yeah, the stock connecter scares me. I like your design though I'm not sure anyone here has the means to develop and sell it. I'm hoping maybe someone may find a softwear solution to charge via the USB micro port. What do you guys think, possible or no?
funnycreature said:
There have been a lot of complaints about the flimsy connector for the Xoom charger. I also think that it is a very poor design at most. The metal pin is too long, the plastic part is poking out too much etc.
I am no engineer and also bad at drawing but I attached something that I think might work. If anyone feels like they could produce a prototype that would be awesome!
The small magnet might or might not work. If you look at the area where all the connectors are you will see a small metal plate that could probably be used to anchor the connector magnetically.
Any feedback is appreciated (even just to say that I am full of sh!t!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like it! i think its a pretty good idea. Wish i knew someone who could create one. I would buy it. stock one scares me
how the F do magnets work?
anyhow, yeah really good design. I would buy that too.
i just turn it upside down while charging it.
I would buy one of those
I have to ask, why you would use that connector at all if you want to redesign a magnetic charger? Why not use the same priciple to connect it to the two plates on the bottom next to the hole for power?
As someone who repairs laptops for a living, this was the single most troubling design aspect of our new toy. It looks like it will be far to easy to damage the internals of this device with the default power cable.
It would make more sense to use a breakaway magnetic connection that makes contact with the two metal plates. I have not looked in to it too far but it would seem that the docs use this and the USB in them is strictly for audio out.
I was actually wondering if the metal plates would be used for dock charging. Since I don't own a dock I can't check. But if it is then yes, the charger should be attached magnetically! Thanks for the clarification. I'll try to design more options
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
keitht said:
So was I. The stock one works fine however, alternatives are great as well. I just do not see a need for one personally. Others may.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My only complaint with the xoom, honestly is the charging system.
For starters, I don't see a reason to not allow charging over USB. Sure the voltage would only be 5v, and it would take considerably longer, but the option would be nice. This isn't to say I want to do away with the 12v charger, because the speed at which it charges is lovely, just the option for the other.
Secondly, the needle-like connector screams, "I want to be broken quickly!" Was there really a need to make the connector in that type and size?
Thirdly, the placement of the charger port is hideous and impractical. It's dead center at the bottom. I rarely use my xoom flat against a surface. I purchased the display portfolio that motorola made. The charger port is not only a hinderance to the utilization of my portfolio case, but is also covered at all times when using the case in any manner that motorola designed it. I'm sure this is simply a brain-fart on motorola's part, which happens to everyone and is understandable, but is there a reason the charger port couldn't have been placed on one of the sides of the device? I would say preferably the left hand side, as people are less likely to turn the device to sit on that side.
I'm not simply posting this to complain, just express my thoughts on the only true fault that I feel the xoom has. On that note, a 90 degree *honestly 180 degree by the design sketch* connector would be lovely, IMO. It still wouldn't be usable with the portfolio case, but it would allow someone to angle the xoom without fear of breaking the charger off inside it.
The two metal plates are indeed for charging on the dock. It takes away the need to use the stock charger on the needle tip. Just plug the charger into the dock and set the Xoom on it. I charge this way every time.
markbo2000 said:
The two metal plates are indeed for charging on the dock. It takes away the need to use the stock charger on the needle tip. Just plug the charger into the dock and set the Xoom on it. I charge this way every time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only problem is that's a $70-$120 solution
Why even have the plug then and just use the metal plates?
xlGmanlx said:
Why even have the plug then and just use the metal plates?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The plug would add additional stability so that it doesn't come off so easily. Not sure how strong you could make the magnets. As I said, I'm no engineer
Makes sense, maybe a smaler nub though haha, otherwise I like the idea
funnycreature said:
The plug would add additional stability so that it doesn't come off so easily. Not sure how strong you could make the magnets. As I said, I'm no engineer
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apple has a patent on the magnetically attached charger. Perhaps this is why motorola went the direction that it did.
http://patft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph...XT&s1=7311526.PN.&OS=PN/7311526&RS=PN/7311526
im gonna make this. I will let you guys know how it works. my first android by the way!
Sweet! I was also thinking about getting some latex and a second charger that I can strip and modify. This will be so cool!
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
I took a lot of inspiration for these projects from some of the stuff I saw posted around here. Like many others, I got tired of the lack of accessories available for the GN and built a few of my own. I was also too impatient to order and wait for the pogo pins that I should have been using for this project, so I used guitar string instead. :silly: Oh well....
The Wooden Desk Dock
This one was fun and It didn't take too long to build. Thanks to chopper the dog for his info in this thread which I used as I was building this. To put this together I used:
a couple pieces of scrap wood for the body,
a paint stirrer cut to size for the platform,
some 46 gauge guitar string for the contacts,
solder,
electrical tape,
a strip of 1/8 inch foam (on the left side. hard to see in the pic) to seat the phone snugly,
a few felt pads for feet,
and, an NFC tag to trigger landscape mode for the phone and it has been working nice.
Ideally, I need to get this thing sanded down a little more, get the tag hidden a little better, and maybe stain or paint it.
The Modified Verizon Car Dock
I'm pretty happy with the way this one turned out, but I'm not finished yet. For this one I used:
an old Verizon car charger,
some 46 gauge guitar string for the contacts,
solder,
electrical tape,
two 1/4 inch pieces of spray tube from a can of WD-40 (I used these as guides for the guitar string to slide through),
some CA glue to hold the tube guides in place (We'll see long this lasts...)
a small bolt, nut, and teflon washer,
a short piece of black wire (I used this to secure the power cord to the dock. It was the smallest, nicest looking way of doing it short of using a twist tie, blegh.)
an NFC tag to trigger landscape mode for the phone,
and a Razer sticker to hide my mistake of shaving too much of the back of that Samsung plate away too fast and melting the front (dammit!)
As you can see, up close it's not the prettiest looking job, but with the phone snapped in it looks just fine. I was a huge pain getting those contacts just right, but eventually using those tubes made it much easier. I carved out a section of the soft rubber inside, because it left a mess when I initially drilled through it. It made it really hard to line the contacts up.
I'm going to work on this one a little more today. I want to add a connector to make it possible to break the cord away from the dock and possibly make another cord with a USB connection on the end.
Adding the Connector to the Modified Verizon Car Dock
This was easier than I expected. I started searching around for supplies and found a couple of old cordless handset bases with just what I wanted, some kind of 90 degree connector. I pulled the receptacle from the board inside the base. Since we had multiple bases, I was able to grab two nearly identical plugs.
Then I removed the fixed car charger from my dock and found a suitable place for the receptacle. I soldered the wires in place and fixed the receptacle in place with a zip tie.
I think the zip tie was the best way to go. It's a little tight under the samsung cover.
I used the plugs and spliced them onto to the verizon car charger and a regular usb cable. For anyone who's interested, the wires inside the verizon charger are red (5v) and green (ground).
After a little testing, I decided the receptacle needed another zip tie and a round of CA glue to hold it in place. Here's the finished product. I'm very happy with how it turned out.
I also have another problem I need to work out. I use my 12v socket in the car for my bluetooth receiver. I need to figure out a way to power both in a small compact way. I've seen those 12v socket splitters and I will not put something like that in my car. What do you guys think about trying to fit both of these into one package?
I had a lot of fun working on these over the couple days. Let me know what you guys think
Well done, I like the look of the chunky wood dock. Although like you said sanding it down would make it look better.
Thanks jonny. I'm thinking a dark stain on it would look nice. I want to replace the platform with something a little more durable as well.
Yea I dont blame you. It doesnt quite fit with the look of the rest of it. Perhaps if you have any more of the wood you used you can use that and just cut a really thin piece to use as the platform.
I'm getting a free Galaxy Tab 3 as a promotion from Time Warner Cable (which I assume is the 7" version based on the statement on their website that says "$199 value") and thought it would be kind of cool to use it for recipes. The idea is that I would use Pepperplate, and use Smart App Protector to keep the screen on while Pepperplate is open. The part I haven't decide on is where to put it. At this point, the most practical thing seems to be to get a case that has strong magnets fastened to the back, which could remain on the tablet at all times, and when I want to use it to cook with I could just slap it on the fridge. But I haven't been able to find any cases that seem to fit this need. Does anyone have any suggestions for this? Or suggestions for a case that may be ideal to Gorilla Glue some neodymium magnets too?
The under-the-counter mounts don't seem to be a good solution because I would like this to be portable when it needs to be. Also, I'd love to hear if anyone has any suggestions on how to implement some method of charging while it's on the fridge, though this is not too important to me and is more of a curiosity than anything else. I was thinking perhaps if the tablet is capable of wireless charging, having magnets around the edge and a wireless charging base on the fridge that would go in the center, then trying to find a way to run the cord along the edge of the fridge door. And if it has NFC (which unfortunately it looks like it may not) perhaps I could have a tag on the fridge that would trigger Pepperplate to launch.
This is all just for fun, but it would be really neat to have some sort of set up where I could just slap the tablet on the fridge and have it do its thing. The biggest priority is finding a case that would be magnetic or easily modified to be magnetic. Any input is welcome. Thanks!
Super Sam Galaxy said:
I'm getting a free Galaxy Tab 3 as a promotion from Time Warner Cable (which I assume is the 7" version based on the statement on their website that says "$199 value") and thought it would be kind of cool to use it for recipes. The idea is that I would use Pepperplate, and use Smart App Protector to keep the screen on while Pepperplate is open. The part I haven't decide on is where to put it. At this point, the most practical thing seems to be to get a case that has strong magnets fastened to the back, which could remain on the tablet at all times, and when I want to use it to cook with I could just slap it on the fridge. But I haven't been able to find any cases that seem to fit this need. Does anyone have any suggestions for this? Or suggestions for a case that may be ideal to Gorilla Glue some neodymium magnets too?
The under-the-counter mounts don't seem to be a good solution because I would like this to be portable when it needs to be. Also, I'd love to hear if anyone has any suggestions on how to implement some method of charging while it's on the fridge, though this is not too important to me and is more of a curiosity than anything else. I was thinking perhaps if the tablet is capable of wireless charging, having magnets around the edge and a wireless charging base on the fridge that would go in the center, then trying to find a way to run the cord along the edge of the fridge door. And if it has NFC (which unfortunately it looks like it may not) perhaps I could have a tag on the fridge that would trigger Pepperplate to launch.
This is all just for fun, but it would be really neat to have some sort of set up where I could just slap the tablet on the fridge and have it do its thing. The biggest priority is finding a case that would be magnetic or easily modified to be magnetic. Any input is welcome. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
here's how I would do it...
Get yourself a (or 2) cheap TPU cases. I have one called BoxWave. 5-6 bucks.... Ebay or Amazon
A semi flexible stiff rubber (TPU) case that the Tab gets fitted into..just like the supersoft silicone cases, but the TPU material is alot stiffer, but still flexible enough to get it on and off your tab easily..
then get peel and stick magnet strips for any hardware store..Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, True Value, Ace... wherever
Stick the magnets to the TPU case and let them set up for 24 hours before putting the Tab in it and putting weight on it..
if youre scared..
Gorrilia glue will work too.. remember.. it's just a cheap case and worth the sacrifice..
Then there ya go!! slip the Tab into the case and stick the Tab on the Fridge!!!
Good luck and be sure to post Pictures of your success!!
jimmbomb said:
here's how I would do it...
Get yourself a (or 2) cheap TPU cases. I have one called BoxWave. 5-6 bucks.... Ebay or Amazon
A semi flexible stiff rubber (TPU) case that the Tab gets fitted into..just like the supersoft silicone cases, but the TPU material is alot stiffer, but still flexible enough to get it on and off your tab easily..
then get peel and stick magnet strips for any hardware store..Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, True Value, Ace... wherever
Stick the magnets to the TPU case and let them set up for 24 hours before putting the Tab in it and putting weight on it..
if youre scared..
Gorrilia glue will work too.. remember.. it's just a cheap case and worth the sacrifice..
Then there ya go!! slip the Tab into the case and stick the Tab on the Fridge!!!
Good luck and be sure to post Pictures of your success!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That sounds like a fantastic way to do it. I was very uneasy about magnets because of two things: the first is that I was afraid they would separate and the other is that I thought I'd need magnets so strong they may damage the tablet. Gorilla gluing them to a case is perfect because it's strong, doesn't damage the tablet, and doesn't require ridiculously strong magnets like I'd need if I had something like a metal plate inside the tablet that the magnets would need to stick to. I wish I'd seen this post a few days ago, because as it turns out I have already started another plan, which I've already ordered the parts for, but I'm strongly considering cancelling my order to give your method a try. The one thing that makes me hesitate is that with the new plan, I've come up with a way to hide the cord, whereas I was unable to think of a way to do this when it's on the fridge.
Here's what I put together: I have a cabinet directly on the left of my stove (as opposed to the fridge which is directly to the right of it). The cabinet starts about a foot and a half off the ground and comes up to about my neck. The idea is to mount it on the cabinet door and hide the cord in the cabinet, and the specifics are as follows. There's no power source inside the cabinet, so I was going to drill an extension cord sized hole in the back base of the cabinet to slip an extension cord into. Then I'd drill another (smaller) hole in the door for the micro USB end of the charging cable. Next, I'd put the power cable together, and it consists of 3 parts. The extension cord, a USB-to-power adapter, and a micro USB to USB flat cable that I've orderd. I ordered a flat one so it can go behind the tablet without being very visible. So once I have cleared a path for the cord and put it together, I'll run the cord from the wall to the hole in the door, and staple it along the edges everywhere in between so it's not in the way. Finally, I'll mount a TPU case on the top part of the door by drilling holes and screwing it in, securing it with hex fasteners on the other side of the door. I've included a simple MS Paint rough draft of what the finished product will look like.
The idea is that it will be mounted on the door, the cords won't be visible, and it will always be connected to a power source (unless I remove it temporarily). I'm not too worried about frying the battery since there are not many instances that would require me to remove it from power so as to rely on the battery. I hate to be so OCD but visible cords are a bit of a bother to me. However, if you have any ideas as to how I may hide them with the method you mentioned I'd be happy to hear them since your method sounds far easier and less destructive, and probably an all around better option if it weren't for those pesky cords! Also, since my tablet hasn't arrived yet I can't check this for myself: (if you have the same tablet) does the Galaxy Tab 3 7.0 have NFC capabilities? I couldn't find anything saying it did, but I couldn't find anything saying it didn't either. If so, I'd put an NFC sticker on the inside of the case and create a set of tasks in Tasker so that when I put it in its home it goes into "Kitchen Mode". Anyway, thanks for all your help and suggestions, and whatever I end up doing I will definitely post a few pics to show it off!
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Super Sam Galaxy said:
That sounds like a fantastic way to do it. I was very uneasy about magnets because of two things: the first is that I was afraid they would separate and the other is that I thought I'd need magnets so strong they may damage the tablet. Gorilla gluing them to a case is perfect because it's strong, doesn't damage the tablet, and doesn't require ridiculously strong magnets like I'd need if I had something like a metal plate inside the tablet that the magnets would need to stick to. I wish I'd seen this post a few days ago, because as it turns out I have already started another plan, which I've already ordered the parts for, but I'm strongly considering cancelling my order to give your method a try. The one thing that makes me hesitate is that with the new plan, I've come up with a way to hide the cord, whereas I was unable to think of a way to do this when it's on the fridge.
Here's what I put together: I have a cabinet directly on the left of my stove (as opposed to the fridge which is directly to the right of it). The cabinet starts about a foot and a half off the ground and comes up to about my neck. The idea is to mount it on the cabinet door and hide the cord in the cabinet, and the specifics are as follows. There's no power source inside the cabinet, so I was going to drill an extension cord sized hole in the back base of the cabinet to slip an extension cord into. Then I'd drill another (smaller) hole in the door for the micro USB end of the charging cable. Next, I'd put the power cable together, and it consists of 3 parts. The extension cord, a USB-to-power adapter, and a micro USB to USB flat cable that I've orderd. I ordered a flat one so it can go behind the tablet without being very visible. So once I have cleared a path for the cord and put it together, I'll run the cord from the wall to the hole in the door, and staple it along the edges everywhere in between so it's not in the way. Finally, I'll mount a TPU case on the top part of the door by drilling holes and screwing it in, securing it with hex fasteners on the other side of the door. I've included a simple MS Paint rough draft of what the finished product will look like.
The idea is that it will be mounted on the door, the cords won't be visible, and it will always be connected to a power source (unless I remove it temporarily). I'm not too worried about frying the battery since there are not many instances that would require me to remove it from power so as to rely on the battery. I hate to be so OCD but visible cords are a bit of a bother to me. However, if you have any ideas as to how I may hide them with the method you mentioned I'd be happy to hear them since your method sounds far easier and less destructive, and probably an all around better option if it weren't for those pesky cords! Also, since my tablet hasn't arrived yet I can't check this for myself: (if you have the same tablet) does the Galaxy Tab 3 7.0 have NFC capabilities? I couldn't find anything saying it did, but I couldn't find anything saying it didn't either. If so, I'd put an NFC sticker on the inside of the case and create a set of tasks in Tasker so that when I put it in its home it goes into "Kitchen Mode". Anyway, thanks for all your help and suggestions, and whatever I end up doing I will definitely post a few pics to show it off!
Yes.. I can see that fastening a tpu case to the cabinet door would work out good... and hiding your cord is a neet way too... too bad that your cabinet door will have to have a huge hole it it behind the Tab...
Maybe mount the TPU closer to the edge and run the Micro USB out of the tab, and a U-turn BEHIND the cabinet door instead of thru it.. your tab will be off center from the cabinet door... but and now remember... it's stuck there. when you pull your tab out.. you'll have an empty TPU case with 4 screws hanging on your cabinet door.
Ive seen stick on magnet strips here about 1"X4".. peel and stick.... I think 4 of those on a TPU case... perfect.. cause you can snatch it off the fridge anytime. carry it away.. stick it to the stove hood..... anywhere.... screwing to a door is semi permanant.. .. Ill go so far as to suggest 2 TPU's... one magnets on the back.. and 1 screwed to the cabinet door.
Subscribe to this thread and it will notify you of replies immediately....
good luck.. keep the ideas comming...
by the way... I thought we were talking about the 8 inch tab3 not the 7,,,,, my bad... I have an 8 incher
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
jimmbomb said:
Super Sam Galaxy said:
That sounds like a fantastic way to do it. I was very uneasy about magnets because of two things: the first is that I was afraid they would separate and the other is that I thought I'd need magnets so strong they may damage the tablet. Gorilla gluing them to a case is perfect because it's strong, doesn't damage the tablet, and doesn't require ridiculously strong magnets like I'd need if I had something like a metal plate inside the tablet that the magnets would need to stick to. I wish I'd seen this post a few days ago, because as it turns out I have already started another plan, which I've already ordered the parts for, but I'm strongly considering cancelling my order to give your method a try. The one thing that makes me hesitate is that with the new plan, I've come up with a way to hide the cord, whereas I was unable to think of a way to do this when it's on the fridge.
Here's what I put together: I have a cabinet directly on the left of my stove (as opposed to the fridge which is directly to the right of it). The cabinet starts about a foot and a half off the ground and comes up to about my neck. The idea is to mount it on the cabinet door and hide the cord in the cabinet, and the specifics are as follows. There's no power source inside the cabinet, so I was going to drill an extension cord sized hole in the back base of the cabinet to slip an extension cord into. Then I'd drill another (smaller) hole in the door for the micro USB end of the charging cable. Next, I'd put the power cable together, and it consists of 3 parts. The extension cord, a USB-to-power adapter, and a micro USB to USB flat cable that I've orderd. I ordered a flat one so it can go behind the tablet without being very visible. So once I have cleared a path for the cord and put it together, I'll run the cord from the wall to the hole in the door, and staple it along the edges everywhere in between so it's not in the way. Finally, I'll mount a TPU case on the top part of the door by drilling holes and screwing it in, securing it with hex fasteners on the other side of the door. I've included a simple MS Paint rough draft of what the finished product will look like.
The idea is that it will be mounted on the door, the cords won't be visible, and it will always be connected to a power source (unless I remove it temporarily). I'm not too worried about frying the battery since there are not many instances that would require me to remove it from power so as to rely on the battery. I hate to be so OCD but visible cords are a bit of a bother to me. However, if you have any ideas as to how I may hide them with the method you mentioned I'd be happy to hear them since your method sounds far easier and less destructive, and probably an all around better option if it weren't for those pesky cords! Also, since my tablet hasn't arrived yet I can't check this for myself: (if you have the same tablet) does the Galaxy Tab 3 7.0 have NFC capabilities? I couldn't find anything saying it did, but I couldn't find anything saying it didn't either. If so, I'd put an NFC sticker on the inside of the case and create a set of tasks in Tasker so that when I put it in its home it goes into "Kitchen Mode". Anyway, thanks for all your help and suggestions, and whatever I end up doing I will definitely post a few pics to show it off!
Yes.. I can see that fastening a tpu case to the cabinet door would work out good... and hiding your cord is a neet way too... too bad that your cabinet door will have to have a huge hole it it behind the Tab...
Maybe mount the TPU closer to the edge and run the Micro USB out of the tab, and a U-turn BEHIND the cabinet door instead of thru it.. your tab will be off center from the cabinet door... but and now remember... it's stuck there. when you pull your tab out.. you'll have an empty TPU case with 4 screws hanging on your cabinet door.
Ive seen stick on magnet strips here about 1"X4".. peel and stick.... I think 4 of those on a TPU case... perfect.. cause you can snatch it off the fridge anytime. carry it away.. stick it to the stove hood..... anywhere.... screwing to a door is semi permanant.. .. Ill go so far as to suggest 2 TPU's... one magnets on the back.. and 1 screwed to the cabinet door.
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good luck.. keep the ideas comming...
by the way... I thought we were talking about the 8 inch tab3 not the 7,,,,, my bad... I have an 8 incher
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I do like the fact that your way doesn't involve destroying parts of my kitchen! I'm thinking now that if I find a way to fasten the USB cable to the fridge in a semi-permanent manner it may not be so bad... The cord is white, like the fridge, and with it being flat it may be less noticeable. I wonder how it would hold up with the door being open and closed, as in whether or not it would slide/fall from the repeated movement... This is going to be a tougher decision than I initially thought! At least there's time to figure it out, the tablet won't be here for like 2 months.
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ill get me some stick on magnets soon and stick them to my TPU and test it out.
Ill post the results..
How come yours wont come in for 2 months? and are you getting the 7" or the 8"
Ive seen the tab3 -7"incher at Best Buy last weekend for only 49$$ but they want you to contract up on a data plan..
WEAK!!!!... I pull my ATT go phone sim out of my phone and jam it into my 315 and BAM!!! an 8" Galaxy phone with data, mms, and voice calls!!!
good luck
jimmbomb said:
ill get me some stick on magnets soon and stick them to my TPU and test it out.
Ill post the results..
How come yours wont come in for 2 months? and are you getting the 7" or the 8"
Ive seen the tab3 -7"incher at Best Buy last weekend for only 49$$ but they want you to contract up on a data plan..
WEAK!!!!... I pull my ATT go phone sim out of my phone and jam it into my 315 and BAM!!! an 8" Galaxy phone with data, mms, and voice calls!!!
good luck
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Please do post results! Sorry I didn't see the reply again, I did subscribe to the thread but I must have missed the email... now it's been a while! Anyway, the 2 month period is just one of the hoops TWC makes you go through to get something free. It will be the 7 inch tablet. I am actually on the phone with them now trying to get them to honor their agreement and it's like pulling teeth. But they are either going to give me a tablet or I'm not going to pay my bill for the next 3 months to make up the difference and I'll buy my own damn tablet! Anyway, I intend to post photos when it's done. I've got everything set up, I just need a table to go in the TPU case.
UPDATE: Just got off the phone with TWC after an hour and 36 minutes, and they told me that they are going to "pass my details to the correct department" and I'd get a call within "3-4 days". Funny, as I pointed out, that was the same thing they told me 8 days ago, after another equally long phone conversation. Anyway, to sum it up they are giving me a credit equal in value to the tablet and I'm debating between the Galaxy Tab 3 (7 inch), which was what the promotion originally offered, or the 2013 Nexus 7. The Nexus has gotten great reviews, is there anything about the Galaxy Tab that you'd recommend over the Nexus? I know I'm kind of getting off track here but I'm just curious.
Super Sam Galaxy said:
Please do post results! Sorry I didn't see the reply again, I did subscribe to the thread but I must have missed the email... now it's been a while! Anyway, the 2 month period is just one of the hoops TWC makes you go through to get something free. It will be the 7 inch tablet. I am actually on the phone with them now trying to get them to honor their agreement and it's like pulling teeth. But they are either going to give me a tablet or I'm not going to pay my bill for the next 3 months to make up the difference and I'll buy my own damn tablet! Anyway, I intend to post photos when it's done. I've got everything set up, I just need a table to go in the TPU case.
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well... after you vacated the thread, I figured you lost interest or just decided to drill holes in your cabinet door..
So, I didnt get any magnets.. BUT I will get them this weekend.. maybe tomorrow... Id like to shoot a video of it stuck to the fridge while opening anf closing... how to post it though??
jimmbomb said:
well... after you vacated the thread, I figured you lost interest or just decided to drill holes in your cabinet door..
So, I didnt get any magnets.. BUT I will get them this weekend.. maybe tomorrow... Id like to shoot a video of it stuck to the fridge while opening anf closing... how to post it though??
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Perhaps upload to Youtube and send a link? Anyway, don't worry about it if it's a bother, but if you get a chance I'd be interested to see. I'll try to keep up with the thread better!
jimmbomb said:
well... after you vacated the thread, I figured you lost interest or just decided to drill holes in your cabinet door..
So, I didnt get any magnets.. BUT I will get them this weekend.. maybe tomorrow... Id like to shoot a video of it stuck to the fridge while opening anf closing... how to post it though??
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Also, here's a photo of the finished product (pending insertion of tablet). Let me know what you think.
Super Sam Galaxy said:
Also, here's a photo of the finished product (pending insertion of tablet). Let me know what you think.
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well that looks pretty cool, now that sits right in the middle of your cabinet door? How did you mount the case to the door, I don't see any screws on the backside of the case that went through the cabinet door with I'm guessing nuts on the other side..I will look for the magnets today at to hardware stores on the way home from work
jimmbomb said:
well that looks pretty cool, now that sits right in the middle of your cabinet door? How did you mount the case to the door, I don't see any screws on the backside of the case that went through the cabinet door with I'm guessing nuts on the other side..I will look for the magnets today at to hardware stores on the way home from work
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Thanks! It's actually a flip-cover case, so the screws are in the cover part, which is flipped over behind it. then I drilled a small hole for the micro USB cable and ran that along the edge of the inside of the cabinet. Now that I'm debating getting a Nexus 7 instead (TWC just gave me a credit to my account in the amount of the tablet, so I have up to $200 to go toward any tablet I want at this point) I'm considering using a wireless charging pad so all I have to do is place the tablet in the case, though not sure if that would work through a case. Still playing with ideas, and if I do the Nexus 7 then I'll need a new case, but thankfully, they're cheap!
Super Sam Galaxy said:
Thanks! It's actually a flip-cover case, so the screws are in the cover part, which is flipped over behind it. then I drilled a small hole for the micro USB cable and ran that along the edge of the inside of the cabinet. Now that I'm debating getting a Nexus 7 instead (TWC just gave me a credit to my account in the amount of the tablet, so I have up to $200 to go toward any tablet I want at this point) I'm considering using a wireless charging pad so all I have to do is place the tablet in the case, though not sure if that would work through a case. Still playing with ideas, and if I do the Nexus 7 then I'll need a new case, but thankfully, they're cheap!
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Ok... lets try this...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jD25aOvicI&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Now, my fridge finish is textured and not smooth. Kind of like a course orange peel,
So I think the grip was not as strong as if it were a smooth surface. If I were to keep this, I would go with a 1 inch wide magnet instead of a half inch which was $1.59 for 30 inches X 1/2".
Good luck!
jimmbomb said:
Ok... lets try this...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jD25aOvicI&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Now, my fridge finish is textured and not smooth. Kind of like a course orange peel,
So I think the grip was not as strong as if it were a smooth surface. If I were to keep this, I would go with a 1 inch wide magnet instead of a half inch which was $1.59 for 30 inches X 1/2".
Good luck!
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Looks great! When you say the grip isn't as strong, I'm wondering, did it slide at all when you opened and shut the door? I didn't see any movement the first time you shut the fridge door and it didn't seem to be in a noticeably different location so I couldn't tell if it did, but that's my primary concern with the magnet method, so if it stays in place then that looks like a perfect solution.
On another topic, what app are you using for the dialer? As I understand it (correct me if I'm wrong), the tablet itself does not come with a dialer, and that was something I was planning on looking into down the road - particularly one that can be used with Google Voice. So my questions are 1) what is the name of the app and 2) does it allow Google Voice capabilities? I know that Google Voice is going to disable third party apps that use its service in a few months, but in the mean time it would be cool to use it to make calls.
Anyway, thanks for taking the time to make the video, and I really like how you have it set up.
Super Sam Galaxy said:
Looks great! When you say the grip isn't as strong, I'm wondering, did it slide at all when you opened and shut the door? I didn't see any movement the first time you shut the fridge door and it didn't seem to be in a noticeably different location so I couldn't tell if it did, but that's my primary concern with the magnet method, so if it stays in place then that looks like a perfect solution.
On another topic, what app are you using for the dialer? As I understand it (correct me if I'm wrong), the tablet itself does not come with a dialer, and that was something I was planning on looking into down the road - particularly one that can be used with Google Voice. So my questions are 1) what is the name of the app and 2) does it allow Google Voice capabilities? I know that Google Voice is going to disable third party apps that use its service in a few months, but in the mean time it would be cool to use it to make calls.
Anyway, thanks for taking the time to make the video, and I really like how you have it set up.
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Like I said that my fridge has a textured finish, so the mags were not getting a solid grip.
It DID stay up there. I even shut the fridge door hard once to test it, but, I'm suspicious, so IF,
IF, I were to do this set up on MY fridge, I would double up on the mag area. & yes, It did NOT move when I had it, just that I wouldnt do it full time without doubling up on the mag area..
My SM-T315 8" Tab came with the Samsung dialer installed.. ya see... It's actually an 8 inch galaxy phone.
Does everything the phones do just in a larger screen.
It has a sim card slot... I take the sim out of my smaller phone (ATT) and slide the sim into the tab 3 8" and BAM!!! The tab is now my phone...
Phone , data plan, mms, everything now comes to the tab with my same number. No need for google voice.
it cost a bit more than the wifi only ones sold at the brick and mortars here in the USA, but, I like the phone and mms features.
good luck
Good luck..
jimmbomb said:
Like I said that my fridge has a textured finish, so the mags were not getting a solid grip.
It DID stay up there. I even shut the fridge door hard once to test it, but, I'm suspicious, so IF,
IF, I were to do this set up on MY fridge, I would double up on the mag area. & yes, It did NOT move when I had it, just that I wouldnt do it full time without doubling up on the mag area..
My SM-T315 8" Tab came with the Samsung dialer installed.. ya see... It's actually an 8 inch galaxy phone.
Does everything the phones do just in a larger screen.
It has a sim card slot... I take the sim out of my smaller phone (ATT) and slide the sim into the tab 3 8" and BAM!!! The tab is now my phone...
Phone , data plan, mms, everything now comes to the tab with my same number. No need for google voice.
it cost a bit more than the wifi only ones sold at the brick and mortars here in the USA, but, I like the phone and mms features.
good luck
Good luck..
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That's nice that it works as a phone out of the box. I use Google Voice as my primary number, which is a pain sometimes, but I like the fact that I can answer it from my mobile, my home phone and my computer, and when I call out from any of those it also shows the Google Voice number on caller ID to the person I'm calling (for the home phone, this is through Ooma Telo). Wish I could have the tablet work the same way in case it's closer when the phone rings. Did you have to order that through a special online service, or can you find that version on Amazon?
Super Sam Galaxy said:
That's nice that it works as a phone out of the box. I use Google Voice as my primary number, which is a pain sometimes, but I like the fact that I can answer it from my mobile, my home phone and my computer, and when I call out from any of those it also shows the Google Voice number on caller ID to the person I'm calling (for the home phone, this is through Ooma Telo). Wish I could have the tablet work the same way in case it's closer when the phone rings. Did you have to order that through a special online service, or can you find that version on Amazon?
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Maybe not Amazon.. I know they had the 311 which is the same but NON-LTE.... E bay has a bunch..
I got mine and all my international stuff from Negri Electronics. They operate in Las Vegas. Very good store and after the sale customer relations.
good luck deciding now.
jimmbomb said:
Maybe not Amazon.. I know they had the 311 which is the same but NON-LTE.... E bay has a bunch..
I got mine and all my international stuff from Negri Electronics. They operate in Las Vegas. Very good store and after the sale customer relations.
good luck deciding now.
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Thanks!
The nexus is a newer version of android but the galaxy has a SD card slot. A big plus in my mind.
Sent from my SM-T210 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Latheman said:
The nexus is a newer version of android but the galaxy has a SD card slot. A big plus in my mind.
Sent from my SM-T210 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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I agree that removable storage is nice, but I wouldn't say it's a deal breaker for me because of the fact that I can get something like a Meenova to easily add more storage if I need to. At this point I'm leaning toward the Nexus because for this purpose, wireless charging capability seems more beneficial than removable storage simply due to the fact that it would be cool to not have a cord showing when it's mounted, and to not have to plug it/unplug it every time I want to take it down for a bit. Of course, the flip side is that instead of seeing a cord, I'd see the Meenova sticking out of it, but that doesn't seem as bad since I probably wouldn't need to have one in there all the time. Either way, I do appreciate the suggestion and I will certainly take into account the capability for removable storage when making my choice. Thanks!