Dock for T-mobile MDA or 8125 (Wizard)

A simple dock for T-mo MDA (aka HTC Wizard). Made completely from cardboard and a spare USB to mini USB wire. I wanted a dock but couldn't afford it right now so I had an idea of making it myself. It was a spontanious project that was fun and completely usable. I think it looks decent apart from the glue marks but it works great and lets the MDA stand vertically as its being charged/synced. It's not very difficult to make so anyone can try if interested.

Step 1 Find the right cardboard

This may be the most difficult step. Finding the right cardboard is important because it forms the base of the unit. I found the tube of cardboard (rectangle in shape) from a new washing machine box. It was used as a support or something. It is very thick and I had a bit of trouble cutting it with a swiss army knife. But it gives the whole unit stability and holds everything together. As you can see the sides are curved and it it gave the dock a bit of character.

I used about 2 3/4" length of the cardboard.

Comments

[aandre]

GREAT IDEA IN THEORY BUT............ this broke my MDA!!!!! thanx for this instructable(sarcastic) my usb recepticle broke off the circuitboard i had to replace the whole pcb board which cost like $100 i lost time and money: this is what is costs to be a nerd i guess

[Darkshot]

very cool

[tAK]

Wow, what a great idea.. ive never seen a cardboard tube like that before though. I attempted a similar thing out of lego once, but couldnt achieve it without cutting them so i gave up. Might i suggest a coating of duct tape to complete the effect.. would cover up the unsightly edges.

[DIYthinker]

Not at all, the USB connector is perfect length. It's basically fully exposed for maximal use. The phone plug-in you're asking about is the Picture Dialer typically seen on the latest Treo's. Search for it in the XDA forum, you'll find it there.

[enero]

Sweet Thanks! I'm gonna try this instructable too! It's a great solution!

[enero]

Did you have any problems with the USB connctor being to short after you installed it in to the base? Also, whats that awsome looking plug-in you have with the pictures and short cut (looking) drop downs??? I must have it!!!

[mrbob1000]

yes but it could eventualy damage the connector (probably)

[mrbob1000]

cool you could probably mod this to work for ipods if you put a diffrent connector in and i think it needs a support on the back

[DIYthinker]

You're right, It is possible to change this mod and make it for an Ipod or other small devices. I thought about the support on the back, but the lack of it hasn't really been a problem. My MDA stays in place pretty firmly so I have no worries that it would fall over. As long as the mini USB is firmly in place, it will be stable.