Charge a USB device via USB without the need for data transfer.

In the case of my Sansus e280, it allows me to play music as it charges.

This effectively covers the two data leads on any USB cable.

Step 1: Gather Items

You will need:

Mp3 Player or Device of concern
Notepad paper, slightly thicker than regular paper, but thinner than cardstock.
USB Cable
Scissors
Ruler
Pencil (if you really need it)
Template (In centimeters)

Step 2: Create

Draw the template on your notepad paper, and cut it out carefully.

Try not to accidentally cut off the small part like I did twice.

Step 3: Install

Fold the skinny part over leaving about 2 mm width for lower part of the plug. Insert into plug all the way, and fold the larger part around the flashing.

You can then plug it in and see if it fits. You may need to trim a bit of the paper off depending on your measurements.

It will stay in the USB slot if you do not pull the paper and the plug together.

Step 4: Complete

There we go, your USB cable has been hacked!

The uses for this may be endless. I hope you find a use for this.

PS. I am not responsible for starting a fire, overheating, breaking, frying, or otherwise damaging your device. (I don't see how it could anyway)

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31 Comments

Joohansson

7 years ago on Introduction

I like easy solutions for common problems that are so obvious you never even bother to try solving them. I will do this with my iPhone that keeps asking me if I trust my computer every time I charge. Thanks mate!

grundisimo

9 years ago on Introduction

My dad built a box for this. It's basically just a usb extension cable that has a switch for the data connection. You just flip the switch and it connects the data connection again.

gburnaska

9 years ago on Introduction

I also tried this on a car head unit that has a usb and does not support charging and it started charging my phone

gburnaska

9 years ago on Introduction

that is weird... the harmony 700 will not charge on a pc no matter what you do... and this cable mod will charge everything I have and sever the data link but the harmony does nothing

SpaceFuzz

10 years ago on Introduction

This is a great tip for ANY USB device that you want to charge, but not "connect" to your system (Windows/Linux/Apple). I got sick of my phone trying to connect and install drivers when connected to my work laptop, when all I wanted was some USB juice to charge it. Paper template blocking pins 2 and 3 did it!! Nice tip, sbrown!