Check out this funky homemade indestructible USB thumb drive called the USB Armor Drive.
The aim of this project was fairly straight forward. The keychain ring on my Corsair 1GB Flash Voyager USB drive from Newegg broke, which left the poor thing prone to be left in the lab. The style of this USB mod takes inspiration from the many, many, many aluminum peripheral electronic cases found around on the Internet.
This is a great mod, and a very stylish looking USB drive. If these were on sale, I would definitely buy one.
Why Create an Indestructible USB Drive?
USB drives are essential tools for storing and transferring data. However, they are often prone to physical damage due to their small size and frequent handling. The USB Armor Drive project addresses this issue by providing a robust and durable solution. The inspiration for this mod comes from the need to protect valuable data from accidental drops, water damage, and other physical impacts. By encasing the USB drive in a sturdy aluminum shell, you can ensure that your data remains safe even in harsh conditions.
Materials and Tools Needed
To create your own indestructible USB thumb drive, you will need the following materials and tools:
- A USB flash drive (preferably one with a broken keychain ring)
- An aluminum case or shell
- Epoxy or strong adhesive
- Sandpaper or a file
- A drill and drill bits
- Screws and nuts
- Optional: Waterproof sealant
The aluminum case can be sourced from old electronic devices or purchased online. The key is to find a case that fits the dimensions of your USB drive snugly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Disassemble the USB Drive: Carefully open the casing of your USB drive to expose the internal circuit board. Be gentle to avoid damaging the components.
2. Prepare the Aluminum Case: Use sandpaper or a file to smooth out any rough edges on the aluminum case. This will ensure a snug fit for the USB drive.
3. Drill Holes for Screws: Mark the positions where you will drill holes for the screws. These holes will secure the USB drive inside the aluminum case. Drill the holes carefully to avoid damaging the case.
4. Attach the USB Drive: Place the USB drive inside the aluminum case and align it with the drilled holes. Use screws and nuts to secure the drive in place. Ensure that the USB connector is accessible.
5. Seal the Case: Apply epoxy or strong adhesive around the edges of the aluminum case to seal it. This will provide additional protection against water and dust. If you want to make the drive waterproof, apply a waterproof sealant around the USB connector.
6. Test the Drive: Once the adhesive has dried, test the USB drive to ensure it functions correctly. Connect it to your computer and check if it is recognized and can transfer data.
Additional Tips and Considerations
– Customization: You can customize the appearance of your USB Armor Drive by painting the aluminum case or adding stickers. This adds a personal touch to your creation.
– Capacity Upgrade: If you have an older USB drive with limited storage capacity, consider upgrading to a larger capacity drive before starting the project. This way, you can have a durable and high-capacity USB drive.
– Heat Dissipation: Aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat. If you plan to use the USB drive for extended periods, ensure that the case has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
If you want to make your own, head on over to RJ3 Labs for full instructions.
via HacknMod
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