Introduction: Turn an External USB DVB-T Dongle Into an Internal One
So you bought an ugly and fragile USB DVB-T dongle in order to receive free digital television broadcasts, but after plugging it into your HTPC you realize how ugly it is and how likely it is for someone to accidently snap it.
This instructable will show you how to hide your external USB DVB-T dongle inside your computer case without disassembling it so you could get it out easily at any time.
Step 1: Materials
All the materials are very cheap and i found everything in my house.
What you will need:
working materials -
- DVB-T dongle
- PCI bracket
- Some 90 degree angled metal bracket
- Male to Female antenna adapter
- Epoxy glue
- Internal USB connecter cable
- Zip ties
- Zip tie anchors
tools -
- Drill
- 12mm metal drill bit
- Dremel
- Grinding\sanding dremel bit
Step 2: Fit the Adapter in the Bracket
After you drill the hole use a dremel to smooth out the edges.***
***ATTENTION! Use safety goggles when drilling and grinding !
Step 3: Glue the Supporting Bracket
All you need to do in this step is to measure where you want the bracket and to glue it in place.
The easiest way to measure where you want the bracket is to connect the dongle to the adapter and put the bracket next to the dongle.
The best way to glue two smooth metals togrther is to rough out the surfaces. I used a grinding bit and my dremel.***
***ATTENTION! Use safety goggles when grinding !
Step 4: The USB Cable
The only way to connect the dongle to the computer is via USB. I didn't want to use an ordinary USB cable that will stick out and connect to the motherboard back panel USB ports so i used an internal USB cable that connects directly to the motherboard's internal USB ports.
The cable i used has two female USB connectors and i only need one. Instead of cutting the spare connector i folded it backwards and used a shrink tube to make it more asthetic and to keep it in place, That way i have another spare USB port ready for future projects or just for connecting a USB flash disk for saving recorded content.
Step 5: Final Assembling
Stick the ancors on the metal bracket and tie the dongle down.
Secure the PCI bracket in your computer, sit back and start enjoying digital television.