Modder and German IT student Qian Qin decided that he wanted to add some inductive charging to his Galaxy S smartphone, so he got hold of a Touchstone charging dock for the Palm Pre and also the back cover of the Pre.
He then took the inductive charging unit out of the Palm Pre case, and soldered it inside his Samsung Galaxy S smartphone. The video below shows the device in action with inductive charging.
Understanding Inductive Charging
Inductive charging, also known as wireless charging, is a method of charging batteries without the need for a physical connection. This technology uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between two objects. The primary component of this system is the inductive coil, which creates an alternating electromagnetic field. When a device with a compatible coil is placed within this field, it induces an electric current in the coil, which is then used to charge the battery.
Qian Qin’s project is a perfect example of how existing technology can be repurposed to enhance the functionality of other devices. By integrating the inductive charging unit from the Palm Pre into his Samsung Galaxy S, he was able to enjoy the convenience of wireless charging without having to purchase a new phone. This kind of modification not only saves money but also reduces electronic waste by extending the life of existing devices.
Steps to Achieve the Mod
The mod cost around $40 and you can find out more information on how it was done along with full instructions should you want to do it yourself over at Qian’s blog. Here is a brief overview of the steps involved:
1. Disassemble the Palm Pre Back Cover: Carefully remove the inductive charging unit from the Palm Pre back cover. This requires some precision to ensure that the unit is not damaged during the extraction process.
2. Prepare the Galaxy S Back Cover: Open the back cover of the Samsung Galaxy S and identify a suitable location to place the inductive charging unit. Ensure that the placement does not interfere with other components of the phone.
3. Soldering the Unit: Solder the inductive charging unit to the appropriate points on the Galaxy S motherboard. This step requires a steady hand and some experience with soldering electronics.
4. Reassemble the Phone: Once the unit is securely in place, reassemble the phone and test the inductive charging functionality. Place the phone on the Touchstone charging dock to ensure that it charges correctly.
This mod is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of tech enthusiasts. It demonstrates that with a bit of creativity and technical know-how, it’s possible to enhance the capabilities of existing devices in ways that manufacturers may not have originally intended.
Moreover, this project highlights the potential for DIY modifications to bring new life to older technology. As smartphones continue to evolve, many users find themselves upgrading to new models more frequently. However, projects like Qian Qin’s show that older devices can still be valuable and functional with the right modifications.
Source Engadget
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