Vehicle Dock for larger Otter Box case, gauging interest... - Galaxy S II Accessories

I use an OtterBox commuter case and it is awesome. The case is larger and heavier, but also stays on the phone properly unlike all lighter ones I have tried.
My only issue is there us no freaking way that it will fit in the genuine samsung vehicle dock.
Currently I'm gathering pieces to fabricate my own dock that uses the genuine suction cup arm. You would need the samsung kit plus my dock, or will have an extension so it will stay standing upright on a desk, all while using the case. I'm thinking any smaller case could also use it with the addition of stick-on rubber spacers to make it fit snug.
I figure there may be a small market for it, prototype will like be made from aluminium on a cnc, but would wear out the case going in/out so will use a plastic injection moulder once finalised. May cnc plastic initially if can get my hands on a block.
So far the plan is for a dock that it slides into, like the samsung desk dock, but with the fittings to attach to vehicle kit arm.
Thoughts/comments? Foreseeable demand?
Pricing I anticipate to be roughly half to cost if the genuine vehicle dock.. So by the time you buy both it adds up. I think would be worth it, and would buy one myself if available.
At least, so far have found nothing similar...
Sent from my GT-I9100T using xda premium

I had a similar problem for a different reason, my SGS2 has no case but is quite fat due to the Momax 2700 mAh battery I use.
I ordered an "EXOMOUNT exogear" car holder as it has some sort of claw-lock mechanism that appears to work well with really fat phones. I have not received it yet so can't comment. 25€ on ebay.
It has no lighter-charger, but you can get one of those for peanuts.
Your plan sounds pretty interesting tho, nothing like a well-built custom product.

Exogear's Exomount
Yes I can vouch for Exogears' Exomount.
I've had it for 3 months on my S2 with CaseMate Pop, and works like a charm.
Exomount has a large jaw and can clip just about any smartphone bordering the size of a tablet.
It sticks awesomely on the dashboard. It will stick on any surface, including glass/windshield, but I prefer it on the dash.
If you don't believe me, look at the youtube video demonstration.

Yeah I looked at various mounts, my main motivation is I want it to charge at the same time, and want the charging part built into the dock so I don't have to dock and then plug in a loose cable. Docked and charging in one motion.
Hopefully will get time to draw it up in 3D tonight.
Sent from my GT-I9100T using xda premium

I'm very interested in this project. I'll keep an eye in this thread!

Have started the design. Hopefully will order the MicroUSB for the base this afternoon to measure up that part.

Guys
This may save you some time......
http://www.slipgripcarmounts.com/Sl...2-i9100-Using-OtterBox-Commuter_p_100415.html
You can use it with standard RAM Mount fittings (which come in a wide range of different types and sizes).
http://www.ram-mount.com/
Have fun

Thanks, had a surge of laziness when I saw that haha
I think I'll build mine as a personal project then instead of as a possible commercial project - though mine will have charging built into the dock Will keep posted.

Related

Looking for the best accessories

Hi I just got my Evo 4G and I am looking for the best accessories that work well with each other. I am looking for the following:
Screen Protector: cant distort colors and it shouldn't make my swipes and stuff terrible and it must protect against minor scratches. Note that i care about the screen protector but I don't want the glass exposed.
Case: Looking for a hard case that doesn't add much bulk and provides protection against everyday scuffs and minor drops.
Car Dock: Looking for a car dock that will hold my Evo while in a Hard case and still be usable. I would like it to recharge the evo as well. Most car docks don't work in my car due to the dashboard shape [see attached picture] so I am interested in vent options and not window adhesives (i cant bear my baby being suspended midair lol)
Better USB Charger: I want one that charge faster (wall charger) and have longer cords and maybe a few more cords.that i can keep one at work and one at home and in the car.
Any ideas?
Here's a good place for cables: http://www.amazon.com/BlackBerry-Cable-Micro-1-0m-Black/dp/B001QATRCA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1288623582&sr=8-1
as for charging, you're not going to find anything better then the stock A/C adapter.
screen protectors, i don't use them and my screen is doing just fine.
car docks: i keep my phone in it's holster cause i drive while in the car. just sayin'
good luck mate! i hope you find everything you're looking for
Well I am really looking for a screen protector ( i cant stand grease on my screen lol) and a car dock for GPS/Navigation purposes. But thank you for your response. I am checking out the amazon link now.
VictoryCrescent said:
Hi I just got my Evo 4G and I am looking for the best accessories that work well with each other. I am looking for the following:
Screen Protector: cant distort colors and it shouldn't make my swipes and stuff terrible and it must protect against minor scratches. Note that i care about the screen protector but I don't want the glass exposed.
Case: Looking for a hard case that doesn't add much bulk and provides protection against everyday scuffs and minor drops.
Car Dock: Looking for a car dock that will hold my Evo while in a Hard case and still be usable. I would like it to recharge the evo as well. Most car docks don't work in my car due to the dashboard shape [see attached picture] so I am interested in vent options and not window adhesives (i cant bear my baby being suspended midair lol)
Better USB Charger: I want one that charge faster (wall charger) and have longer cords and maybe a few more cords.that i can keep one at work and one at home and in the car.
Any ideas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use cheap screen protectors. I can get the vinyl ones on discount and choose not to because I don't like the way they feel. The cheap ones that use static cling to stick to my screen work great and don't get scratched through. I have scratches on the protector, but not the screen. Make sure they have a cutout for the camera if you don't use the ones that are linked.
My otterbox commuter isn't too bulky, but if you want minor bulk go with the new Incipio case. I think it just started shipping.
Go with the Kensington Iphone mount. It comes with a dash mount and a windshield mount. It works with the Evo in an otterbox, so it will def work with any hard case you may get that is smaller. I got this based on feedback from a member here and they couldn't have been more correct. It will not charge the phone, but if you are using the vent mount get you a cheap car charger.
USB Cords are all the same charge wise, it is a limitation of the USB port, not the cable. but if you want a long one go here.
you asked for the best...i don't have the best, but it works pretty well...
i have the seidio rugged case, i got it from amazon for $40 for the hard case, rubber case to go over that, holster and the screen protector.
seidio's screen protector is pretty good in my opinion. i'm not "screen protector connoisseur" by any means but it seems to hold up well while having a very glassy feel. as long as my hands arent covered in some sort of cooking or forehead grease, it stays relatively clean. I'm happy with the screen protector.
the seidio hard is ok. i like it overall but mine has developed a crack ( i have dropped it a couple times) and i will be seeing if i can get some sort of replacement. overall, it didn't add to much bulk and i liked the feel. i also liked how it goes on the phone and feel it provides good protection. i use this case by it self most of the time. i use the rugged part of it when i go off-road or working outside...really anytime that being in my pocket wouldnt be a good idea.
i use the nuvi 205 car mount for my evo. just takes a couple of minutes over a stove with a pair of pliers to form it to fit the evo with case. i fitted to my rugged case and when i use just the hard case, i use a piece a memory foam to hold it in place. it works really well and i use it while i go off-road. if it getting really bumpy, it falls out eventually but while on road it holds very nicely using either case.
i got the vent one so that it could have moving air going over the phone cause i did notice if i had my 1A car charger going and running satnav and other track recording apps plus music it got pretty warm (+the Arizona sun) and would stop charging.
like i said, not the best but thought it might be worth telling my experience.
cheers
I buy all my cables from monoprice.com
mag921 said:
I buy all my cables from monoprice.com
Click to expand...
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+1
And not just for phone / IT equipment - car stereo, home theatre, everything. They've got an amazing combination of price and quality.
mag921 said:
I buy all my cables from monoprice.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
USB cable there (monoprice) was for $2.81, where i got my cable on ebay for $1.85.
What I have bought on ebay for my evo:
Extended battery 3500mAh for $9.99
Desktop slim cradle for $12.26
Amazon
Seidio spring holster $22
Ebay and Amazon should be on your list to find accessories.
Here's what I use:
Seidio Innocase™ II Surface Combo: The Innocase II Surface fits the Evo like a coat of paint and adds almost no bulk. People are frequently surprised to learn that I even have a case on my phone. Despite that, it protects the phone remarkably well. I work in the industrial maintenance trades and I'm not easy on my phones, but my Hero looked like new after a year in an Innocase Surface (after I removed the case) so I'm using the same thing on my Evo.
Seidio Ultimate Screen Guard - Crystal Clear: I actually use the Boxwave ClearTouch™ Anti-Glare screen protector on my phone but a lot of people don't like the matte finish and the Seidio Ultimate is a great choice if you like a crystal clear protector. Either one is durable and easy to apply, and I didn't detect any reduction in touch sensitivity for either one.
Seidio Desktop Charging Cradle: The perfect desktop cradle as far as I'm concerned. Use it with the wall wart which came with your Evo and it will charge at the maximum rate that the Evo will allow. Use it connected to a USB port on your computer and it will sync, but it will only charge at a reduced rate because a USB port can't deliver the power that a wall wart can. I keep my dock connected to the wall wart and use another cable (which I bought from monoprice.com) when I want to sync.
It may sound like I'm a Seidio dealer, but I'm not. They just make top quality stuff and I'm the kind of guy who appreciates that and sticks with what works. If you'd like some further reading which includes some before & after photos of my Hero and the Seidio Innocase II I used on it, you can visit the thread in Android Forums by CLICKING HERE. If you want to cut right to the chase you can read the first and last post in that thread, but there's some good stuff in between too.
Pete

[Q] Is there a case that allows full access?

I'm looking for a case that will support the tab (folio style or the like) yet have the cut out or designed in a way to have access to the headphone jack and dock port.
I would really like to load movies onto a SD card and watch them via the USB host adapter. However, I will be doing this mostly in places that will need headphones. Also will need a case that supports the tab so I don't have to hold it. (Thanks Samsung, for this little inconvenience)
Anyone see anything that will make this possible?
I would like this as well. Most cases give headphone access but that port connector location kinda sucks. We almost need a case with a build in port connector that has a wire oud the side....perhaps detachable.
Ya.. I've been looking at cases for an hour and now resorted to looking on ebay.
That dock connector is seriously in a bad spot.
I could really care less about the case, but I care greatly about not having to hold the darn thing up with my hand while I'm using it. This includes while watching movies or showing someone pictures I just took.
Trying to add a support solution without adding the case would be an option...
I have the ACase Folio, which I am very happy with. When I want to use the Tab with something plugged into the dock connector, I fold the ACase cover all the way back and stand the Tab on the Rabbit Portable Stand and Holder, $10 on ebay, shipped, at http://cgi.ebay.com/Rabbit-Portable-Stand-and-Holder-iPad-Galaxy-Tablet-PC-/220772954466
The stand is just wide enough to accomodate the USB adapter (as well as the USB cable). Works great for me.
Thanks, I've seen the rabbit stand and it's the best stand of that type IMO. However it's just one more thing to carry. Add that to a bumpy plane ride and I'm still looking for a case that does it.
I just got the Belkin slim from Best Buyer, and it's going back.
pdxrealtor said:
Thanks, I've seen the rabbit stand and it's the best stand of that type IMO. However it's just one more thing to carry. Add that to a bumpy plane ride and I'm still looking for a case that does it.
I just got the Belkin slim from Best Buyer, and it's going back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Rabbit Stand comes in two pieces, that you interlock to use (see first picture attached). When not using, one of the pieces fits flat into the other, and the two pieces fit flat into a seal-able baggie that comes with the stand (see second picture). Would take up minimal space in your carry on for traveling.
For bumpy plane rides, you could use velcro to attach the stand to the Tab or a Tab case.
(I have no connection to the Rabbit Stand or the ebay seller. It just happens to be the only good solution I have found to using the Tab in landscape mode with the USB adapter plugged in, and a good one at that.)
Oh yea baby ill give you full access. That what she said she really did.
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
rooCASE Multi-Angle (Black) Leather Folio Case Cover
cleblanc92 said:
I would like this as well. Most cases give headphone access but that port connector location kinda sucks. We almost need a case with a build in port connector that has a wire oud the side....perhaps detachable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey guys, I HIGHLY recommend this one from Amazon:
rooCASE Multi-Angle (Black) Leather Folio Case Cover for Samsung GALAXY Tab 10.1 Wi-Fi
I cant link to it yet, since this is my first post!!
I got it from Amazon last week after using the Belkin one for a few days. It's $43. but it's really worth the investment!!
The pouch is detachable from the Case itself so that it can stand portrait position AND landscape position. It attaches to the case by two large Velcro circles.
You can flip it around so that the charger faces out and the case closes while charging. Or you can leave it with the port on the bottom and move the Tab up (in landscape position) and the cord runs along the inside spine of the case while it charges.
Check out the specs and more details at Amazon.com
Executive Portfolio Leather Cover for Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 GT-P7510
Built-In Stand for Comfortable Viewing at 45 Degree Angle. Detachable Inner Sleeve for Handheld Operation;
Business and ID Slots with Accessory Flap. Elastic Loop for Pen or Stylus. Dual Zipper for Easy Access.
Access to All Ports and Controls.
A MUST Have for all GALAXY Tab 10.1 Owners!! Available in Black, Magenta and Red. Search: rooCASE Galaxy Tab 10.1 Executive Portfolio
Reattaches by Velcro for Landscape / Portrait Viewing. (Galaxy Tab NOT Included)
(NOT Compatible with Galaxy Tab 7, 8.9 and 10.1v P7100 European Edition)
If you are concerned about thinness and slimness, this isnt for you. This REALLY makes you look like an Executive!!
I saw this. It's just too thick for my liking.
I could have dealt with it, but the fact that you're always going to have a keyboard sized front cover in front of the TAB was a deal killer.
At first, I thought about that, but then I quickly realized that I wasn't. I guess the Tab distracted me too much I can't ignore the extra protection & stability it provides though. My stylus doesn't roll too far either and is easy to find on my desk which is also black (and the lights are dimmed for a little "Table-
Hopefully someone will develop one for those users who prefer a slimmer form factor which has the functionality & accessibility of this one. The port cant be moved so they should definitely take a closer look when designing them. If they put it on the other side, then it would be waaayy to similar to that "other" device, which shall remain nameless.
J
RooCase is AWESOME from Amazon! so many different ways to set it up its impossible to not have your desired configuration. Unless like someone else said you bought this tab for the sole fact of it being thinner than the thing that soaks up my woman's monthly friend. Just goes to show you that Apple will suck you dry!

Proclip mount shipping - works with extended battery!

Good news for all you Proclip fans,
I just recieved mine today and it works with the Samsung Extended battery just as well as the standard battery. There is a 1/2 in space behind the phone that should allow for even the most extreme extended batteries to fit as long as the battery cover does not extend beyond where the original battery cover fits (like if it wraps around the side of the phone it will not fit).
I ordered Proclip part number 513331 (Hard wired install).
Proclip doesn't disappoint either, this mount is just as awesome as the one for my old DINC. Nice and sturdy.
I'll post some pics later when I get it installed.
As is typical with proclip mounts, the mount is designed based on the physical dimensions of the phone (specifically the sides of the phone) so cases that change those dimensions will cause the phone to not fit in the grooves correctly.
Pix of the proclip in action
Grabbed a couple of pics for anyone interested.
Looks good, I had the incredible one too, but imo it was a little to hard to get in and out. Unfortunately since I already chipped my phone, I'm too scared to go naked with this phone. Plus their price is just too high for me.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
T-Keith said:
Looks good, I had the incredible one too, but imo it was a little to hard to get in and out. Unfortunately since I already chipped my phone, I'm too scared to go naked with this phone. Plus their price is just too high for me.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wont argue that they are spendy - I already had the base part but it's like $100 for both pieces for newbies.
But I do get something that no other mount has been able to offer me - this one is wired into the car, I can use only one hand to put my phone in it, and it doesn't fall or move when I press too hard. Considering the Verizon one is $40 and a POS it seemed worth the extra.
But yea if you have a case it's not so good.
does you phone fall if you turn the screen for navigation ?
I just ordered Proclip's adjustable mount 875214. Hopefully it will work well with my diztronic case. It grips near the bottom of the phone so it shouldn't interfere with any of the buttons or ports. I'll update after it arrives with the results!
roachdabug said:
I just ordered Proclip's adjustable mount 875214. Hopefully it will work well with my diztronic case. It grips near the bottom of the phone so it shouldn't interfere with any of the buttons or ports. I'll update after it arrives with the results!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should be good, as it is adjustable. I wish they made the sides of the powered mount adjustable...
juju2lose said:
does you phone fall if you turn the screen for navigation ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, it stays in there really well.
roachdabug said:
I just ordered Proclip's adjustable mount 875214. Hopefully it will work well with my diztronic case. It grips near the bottom of the phone so it shouldn't interfere with any of the buttons or ports. I'll update after it arrives with the results!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well for those who aren't aware, these Proclip holders come in 2 pieces: The first is a custom-fit bracket for your particular vehicle, and the other is the actual phone holder.
So let me start with the holder. The one I got is adjustable and holds my Galaxy Nexus with Diztronic case extremely well. It's snug but not difficult to remove, and leaves plenty of room behind the phone for the craziest of extended batteries. A+
Then there's the mounting bracket... I selected 853616 for my '07 Impreza. It hooked in behind the panel just fine and it is made of the same plastic as the holder which was nicer than I expected.
Unfortunately, it goes downhill from here: This particular bracket is a bad fit. All the angles are off, and as a result the adhesive backed sections do not contact the vehicle properly. Even if they did, the adhesive is so weak that I'm not sure it would stick. I'm going to have to pull it all apart and go to work with some thick double-sided adhesive tape of my own in order to deal with the gaps and get it installed properly. Not cool, especially considering the whole kit ended up costing me about $60. Now, there's lots of different brackets for lots of different cars out there, so your mileage may vary.
At any rate, it does a much better job holding the phone than my cupholder did.
Got mine a couple of days ago.
As has been noted, they come in two pieces. The piece that holds the phone is very, very nice and will definitely work with any reasonable extended battery. It's very snug, but not too snug, and the fit is perfect. I got one of the powered versions and it's fantastic.
The car mount piece, for me, is of similar quality. The fit is near stock and the thing is damn near impossible to remove.
As a unit, the two pieces are rock solid.
Highly recommended. I wouldn't hold out for the Samsung three pin holder. I had that same holder (minus the three pins, obviously) for my Nexus S - and this one is far, far, far better.
roachdabug said:
Well for those who aren't aware, these Proclip holders come in 2 pieces: The first is a custom-fit bracket for your particular vehicle, and the other is the actual phone holder.
So let me start with the holder. The one I got is adjustable and holds my Galaxy Nexus with Diztronic case extremely well. It's snug but not difficult to remove, and leaves plenty of room behind the phone for the craziest of extended batteries. A+
Then there's the mounting bracket... I selected 853616 for my '07 Impreza. It hooked in behind the panel just fine and it is made of the same plastic as the holder which was nicer than I expected.
Unfortunately, it goes downhill from here: This particular bracket is a bad fit. All the angles are off, and as a result the adhesive backed sections do not contact the vehicle properly. Even if they did, the adhesive is so weak that I'm not sure it would stick. I'm going to have to pull it all apart and go to work with some thick double-sided adhesive tape of my own in order to deal with the gaps and get it installed properly. Not cool, especially considering the whole kit ended up costing me about $60. Now, there's lots of different brackets for lots of different cars out there, so your mileage may vary.
At any rate, it does a much better job holding the phone than my cupholder did.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How snug of a fit is it? I have Verizon galaxy nexus with extended battery and Diztronic case. Does it take quite a bit of pressure to put it in the holder? Also, is the headphone jack open at the bottom?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
roachdabug said:
the adhesive backed sections do not contact the vehicle properly. Even if they did, the adhesive is so weak that I'm not sure it would stick. I'm going to have to pull it all apart and go to work with some thick double-sided adhesive tape of my own in order to deal with the gaps and get it installed properly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I had to do for my wife's Civic. She got the car mount that affixes to the center console and that one piece of double sided tape just wasn't cutting it. I used a heat gun to remove the factory tape and then liberally applied tape to all parts contacting the console. It's been holding steady for over a year.
Proclip should probably give people more sticky tape - but I think the reason they only use a single piece is because they tout that the proclip doesn't damage the car and it could be argued that uber liberal amounts of double-sided sticky tape could potentially damage some surfaces. In the civic it’s all plastic so it’s NBD to use a heat gun and remove any residue, but if was a BMW with an oak dash then I could see people complaining.
dgwood12 said:
How snug of a fit is it? I have Verizon galaxy nexus with extended battery and Diztronic case. Does it take quite a bit of pressure to put it in the holder? Also, is the headphone jack open at the bottom?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think any case would work with the proclip because it is a very snug fit and yes it takes a fair amount of pressure to put it in. Not so much that it will move the dock but certainly enough to keep the phone from coming out accidentally.
The only reason the extended battery works is because there is nearly a 1 inch opening behind the phone and the battery cover does not extend to the edge.
Yes the headphone jack is open but you would need a connector that is straight. A 90 degree connector would not work.

Carryall?

I'm looking for some kind of tote/micro laptop bag for the N7 in which the clunky wall charger can fit. There are plenty of slim form fitting sleeves with handles, but I haven't seen one with a gusseted exterior pocket. I have seen some pictured with just the usb cord emerging from a slim pocket, but it's obvious the chunky cube won't fit. I don't want a large bag where the Nexus would slosh around a lot. Ideally the bag would fit the N7 in a slim protective case, the big charger, and maybe another small item or two. I may have to rev up my sewing machine. Any ideas?
http://www.amazon.com/Riva-Case-5107-Webtablet-eBook-Reader/dp/B00A6JHL9S
Even cheaper here: http://www.nzgameshop.com/pc-hardware/rivacase-5107-7-inch-tablet-pc-bag-black
Shows it filled with stuff:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61ibsYq-XaL._SY450_.jpg
BobjGear for me... http://www.amazon.com/BobjGear-Scre...&qid=1390797764&sr=8-4&keywords=bobjgear+case
This is what I use:
http://www.redoxx.com/Cool-Luggage-Accessories/Lil-Roy/91037/170/Product
Built like a tank. Lifetime warranty. Fits my N7 in a sleeve and lots of room for other stuff,
I'm using this one but in black: I came across it accidentally at my local surplus store for $8.
http://www.everestbag.com/fanny-packs-utility/utility-bag/
i use one of those http://www.deuter.com/DE/en/bags/escape-ii-85113-78.html
oXnoX said:
i use one of those http://www.deuter.com/DE/en/bags/escape-ii-85113-78.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what I use. It sits right next to my xD .40. http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...57856_757854_757837_ProductDisplayErrorView_N
Here's what I use: http://www.tucanousa.com/shop/one-for-macbook-air-12.html
It might be a bit bigger than you want, though. In the large compartment there is a smaller sleeve that I put the tablet in. Still plenty of room for other things too.

DIY Qi/Wireless Car Dock idea

I've been thinking about creating my own wireless car dock. Basically I was thinking of using a case protector and trimming the edge off that locks the phone into the case to provide for easy insertion/removal from the "dock". On the back of the case I was going to cut an opening for the wireless charging transmitter...preferably one with magnets to assist with keeping the phone in place. Not sure if I'll just buy/use the Nexus 5 charger I currently have build my own. On the back of the charger I was going to attach one of the swiveling mounts which can then attach to one of the mounts similar to what the Pro.Fit mounting brackets and such use.
Any comments, concerns, better ideas?
sorry bro its been done.
The Air Dock
and the official website
http://www.theairdock.com/
undivide said:
sorry bro its been done.
The Air Dock
and the official website
http://www.theairdock.com/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not really the same thing at all. The OP is looking for a solution that uses magnets. You could get a random car dock, trim any plastics past the ball joint to fit, epoxy a nexus wireless charger to it, and be done. That would work nicely.
did you even read anything about the air dock ?
you probably skipped over this part...
"Inside the Air Dock are magnets that pull the phone tightly into the foam face"
the FAQ also covers the nexus 5 & 7 + magnets
only reason I bothered posting the product is because the price seems reasonable when you consider how much it would cost to "rig up" something hack style which, in the end, would probably not function as well nor look as nice as the air dock does.
I realize the air dock exists...and it's $69. I already have numerous cases and Qi chargers I can use to do this. The only thing I really need is the swivel adapter and the bracket to install in the car. I think the air dock is great but I feel like I can create something very similar that would work just as good if not better and for less money. The way I look at it, the air dock is missing one thing that I would like just for my own piece of mind, especially since I drive in Pennsylvania a lot (and if you ever have driven in PA, you know you can practically lose your car in the potholes there). I like the idea of a case/surround that doesn't require it to "snap in" to but provides just enough support for a solid hit so it doesn't pop out/off. Basically my idea is very similar to the air dock except it includes a case around the charger part. The way I look at it, even if I were to buy everything to make this, I can still make it cheaper than the air dock. The "case" I would hack apart I can get as cheap as $10 or less, and I already have 3 spares. The charger can be had for around $12 (even if I want to buy just the coil and PCB) unless I want to spend a lot and get another nexus charger which is $50. The only other thing I need is the adapter and mount which is about $9-15. So I can make the same thing for as little as $31-$37.
hey man thanks for writing back ! yes I used to live in PA near philly, now I live south of wilmington DE, this winter has been hell ! my rearview mirror fell off 2 weeks ago from hitting a pothole so I see your concern. one of the reasons why I stopped mounting my phone in my car (used to have an iphone 5) I bought a cheap mount from walmart as you can see here they say the stickiness lasts awhile as long as you wet it when it starts to dry out however mine will no longer get its stick back so its worthless to me.
are you going to fix mount this to your dash, or suction cup it to your window ? the latter I would not recommend
I'm sure you've seen the ram mounts x-grip, it looks top notch and I think if I ever upgrade from the cupholder recess in my scion my phone would be so lucky to find its place there.
sometimes I rest it in front of my stereo so I dont have to look at the word "aux" while the music's on!
Pandages said:
Not really the same thing at all. The OP is looking for a solution that uses magnets. You could get a random car dock, trim any plastics past the ball joint to fit, epoxy a nexus wireless charger to it, and be done. That would work nicely.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's exactly what I did just yesterday lol.. iMagnet dock with the Qi Nexus charger. The iMagnet dock has 4 strong mangets on the end, well I took those and put them on the plates that you're supposed to put in between a case and phone and glued them together to create a flat surface for the nexus charger.
It works perfect for me. Also had to order a charger to support the nexus charger.
iMagnet Dock
Car Charger
Truck is dirty, shhhh waiting for a nice day to clean it, damn you Michigan!
I know what I'm getting with my next paycheck
I just hope the magnet on that dock is strong enough to hold my phone through its fairly thick silicone case
ilikethepenkils said:
That's exactly what I did just yesterday lol.. iMagnet dock with the Qi Nexus charger. The iMagnet dock has 4 strong mangets on the end, well I took those and put them on the plates that you're supposed to put in between a case and phone and glued them together to create a flat surface for the nexus charger.
It works perfect for me. Also had to order a charger to support the nexus charger.
iMagnet Dock
Car Charger
Truck is dirty, shhhh waiting for a nice day to clean it, damn you Michigan!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's pretty similar to what I want to do, although I was thinking of taking a Nexus 5 case and cutting a hole in the back and epoxying it to the charger two allow 2 things. One is to provide a little extra support for severe potholes and also to allow the wireless charger to sit directly on the phone maximizing the charge rate. I was going to cut the lip off around the edge of the case so the phone can just be placed into the case instead of snapping it in since the magnets will take care of the bulk of keeping the phone in place while the sides of the case will just provide extra support. Just an idea. If anything I'll start off with the same/similar thing as what you have and possibly add the case idea if I notice issues of slipping or popping off with pot holes.
As for how/where I was going to mount it (2009 Scion XB), I was thinking of either mounting near the stick shift or possibly to the right of the stereo. Either way I'd rather have something relatively close to the top of the dash. The stick shift would be too low but at least it's accessible if I need to take a quick glance at it.
undivide said:
I know what I'm getting with my next paycheck
I just hope the magnet on that dock is strong enough to hold my phone through its fairly thick silicone case
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the Cruzerlite TPU cases. They've always served their purpose well for me at least. The magnets on the Nexus 5 Qi charger are pretty strong without a case. With the cruzerlite cases it's not quite as strong but it does hold a bit. Probably wouldn't hold well hitting a series of potholes though. I guess it also depends on how vertical it would be to. I would imagine it would have a better chance of breaking loose completely vertical as opposed to some angle to it.
ParadingLunatic said:
That's pretty similar to what I want to do, although I was thinking of taking a Nexus 5 case and cutting a hole in the back and epoxying it to the charger two allow 2 things. One is to provide a little extra support for severe potholes and also to allow the wireless charger to sit directly on the phone maximizing the charge rate. I was going to cut the lip off around the edge of the case so the phone can just be placed into the case instead of snapping it in since the magnets will take care of the bulk of keeping the phone in place while the sides of the case will just provide extra support. Just an idea. If anything I'll start off with the same/similar thing as what you have and possibly add the case idea if I notice issues of slipping or popping off with pot holes..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I live in an apartment complex with speedbumps.. Made the truck go about 40-ish and the phone didn't even budge.. so you should be good. lol
I know what I'm getting with my next paycheck
I just hope the magnet on that dock is strong enough to hold my phone through its fairly thick silicone case
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My N5 is without case currently. Every case I have is too bulky and just eh, thinking about trying the poetic bumper one Ive seen on amazon..
I Made this
DIY wireless car charger: http://youtu.be/dDH2_auNWVs
It would actually be nice if there were a thread specifically for DIY Qi charger projects which included pics/plans etc. I guess creativity and the search feature will have to suffice for now.
I was also thinking of building my own Qi charger. I'd like my case to be much smaller though, similar to the Nexus 5 Qi charger. I was thinking of stacking the coil on top of the PCB but I'm not sure what shielding if any is required between the coil and the PCB.
If only that new NXP semiconductor solution were available right now. Check it out here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50hjojLLDww. Nothing much you can do about the size of the coil, but that tiny PCB is freaking sweet.
ilikethepenkils said:
That's exactly what I did just yesterday lol.. iMagnet dock with the Qi Nexus charger. The iMagnet dock has 4 strong mangets on the end, well I took those and put them on the plates that you're supposed to put in between a case and phone and glued them together to create a flat surface for the nexus charger.
It works perfect for me. Also had to order a charger to support the nexus charger.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bingo! This is exactly what I was suggesting. I think I'll wind up doing the same. I've got one of the CHOE Qi chargers at home, but it is magnet-less. I'm also picking up a PowerBot unit to throw on my desk at the office.
I think you'll find that using a case to hold the phone snugly is not only overkill but also a hassle. Magnets work great on their own, but having a rubbery surface makes it even better.
I have the Air Dock (see here) myself but am considering downsizing to an official Nexus 5 charger fixed to a ProClip (see here) This would not only be smaller but also sturdier. First I might affix the Air Dock itself to the ProClip and see if that satisfies me.
Definitely happy with the Air Dock, though. Great product. The guy making them is great as well.
active nfc, Qi & bluetooth car dock
Hi all, I''ve been messing about with different versions of this for months now, since i had my Nexus 4. When i changed my car last year, the new one came fitted with an active, adjustable Brodit/Proclip iPod dock and a Parrot bluetooth system
The first thing i did was removed the active ipod plug from the bottom of the mount and replaced it with a standard micro usb for the Nexus.
Then i added an nfc tag to trigger a LLama event to switch on bluetooth and start music playback when connected
I decided i didn't like the Parrot system so i removed it and went back to the Belkin Aircast Auto i had from my last car and routed all the cables behind the dash to the lighter socket
Then i thought i'd try a cheap "puck" Qi charger. The jaws on the old ipod mount are very deep and the puck fitted in behind the phone nicely, with the nfc tag on top (first pic). The phone charged well even while streaming bluetooth, but would only maintain charge while using bluetooth and Sat Nav. together, so i kept the option to unplug the Qi and use wired charging when i needed more juice. The charger was a little wider than the phone, hence the foam and slight "v" angle on the mount jaws to hold it firmly
So last week i ordered a new pull tab slip case for my phone and the one that arrived was too small, so i thought it was time to break the guts out of the Qi charger (unclip the 2 halves and remove 4 screws to release a one piece coil and circuit board) and tidy the mount up a bit.
I made a taller plastic backplate for the brodit mount, stuck the circuit board to it with mounting tape and stuck the nfc tag directly to the centre of the coil. Then i added packing to even out the thickness of the whole piece and altered the slip case so it would slide over everything while leaving an access flap so i can still use the wired charger cable when necessary (pics 2 & 3)
If this works well i'll rebuild the charging "sandwich" from better plastic to decrease the thickness a little, then i'll fit an extra lighter socket behind the stereo for the charger

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