Powerblock Modifications

Danorak1981

Hi all,

Has anybody successfully modified their Powerblock?

I'm looking to purchase one in the next few months or so but understand that any case I pick is going to need some modification to allow accessibility to the MicroUSB power supply. What I'd like to know is:

Could I de-solder the MicroUSB on the Powerblock and run some wiring to the port on the Pi board?
I'm intending on adding a status LED: could I add two to the LED point on the board?
Is Kynar a suitable wire for the on/off switch and LED? Like this on eBay.

I currently have this case and I really like it, but I don't have the tools to start cutting it up. The plan is to wire the switch up and put a little dab of hot glue on the underside and attach it to the lid so it's hidden. I'd then place the LED's in opposite corners: this case has a 2mm gap all the way round, so I thought it might look quite nice see a glowing 'shadow gap' when in use.

Those two points are easily achievable though, it's more a question of whether I could re-wire the MicroUSB.

Any thoughts anybody?
Cheers,
Dan

petrockblog

Besides the MicroUSB port the PowerBlock also offers two pins for generic 5V inputs. You can see these 5V-IN pins, e.g., here:

alt text

If you have a hot air reworking station you could also de-solder the micro-usb connector.

Danorak1981

@petrockblog Thanks for the info!

I don't have a Hot Air Rework Station, but I may be able to get my hands on one at work.

Can I just ask, what are your thoughts on the Kynar wiring in the link-would it be suitable? And one thing I cannot find the answer to (unless I have over looked it): how much height does the Powerblock add to the the Pi, just incase I decide to go for a new one?

Cheers,
Dan