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thatdecade

macrumors newbie
Original poster
Sep 27, 2010
8
0
I thought about this the day the ipad was announced and am quite surprised I haven't seen anyone attempt it yet. The idea is to modify the ipad to include one of the camera connection kits internal. That way the ipad can accept sd cards or usb devices without a dongle sticking out.

I do have the technical prowess to do this myself, but doubt my dremel skills. Notes below.

Stuff needed:
  • ipad
  • sd connection kit
  • small power switch (disables connection kit for connection to pc or charging)
What you need to do is open the sd connection kit and identify the 5 wires used to connect to the ipad. The bare connection kit is very slender and will fit inside the ipad without issue. Open the ipad and do a test fit to confirm.
Dremel an opening in the side of the ipad big enough for both the sd slot and the switch. Be sure to knock down any sharp spots. Mount the sd slot behind the new opening and line up so an sd card can be inserted cleanly. Use glue of choice to make the mount permanent.
The wiring is straight forward. Identify the connection kit's +5 wire and route through the on/off switch.

The on/off switch is necessary. While the kit is powered the ipad's usual connection port will be unavailable. Do not try to connect anything to the connection port while the sd kit is powered.
 
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