“Imagination is the source of every form of human achievement. And it’s the one thing that I believe we are systematically jeopardizing in the way we educate our children and ourselves.”, Ken Robinson

In order to resolve some mobile electronics issues, I decided to pick up a spare ashtray and modify it into a dock for my phone.  I felt that making something would provide a better solution that the one size fits all phone docks.  Additionally I wanted something that would look cleaner than a suction cup to my windshield / dash to hold my phone and wires all over the place.

After getting the spare ashtray I realised that would be a good place to have the usb (mp3) for my head unit in the same location.  When locating the female USB port (front case panel from dell computer). I noticed that I could use the headphone port for AUX/In as well.

De-solder a few components then hack the shit out of it 🙂  Notice the pins of the USB and headphone jack that was removed, they were not coming out easily so mild force was use to just pry them out after solder was removed.

The next phase will be to get the interconnecting wires attached and to design the cradle part of the dock.  (need the power cable / micro usb to connect to the phone when in a case and not.)

— UPDATE —
After the great guess on the order of the 4 usb (4-3-2-1!) I caught a snag on the 1/8in headphone. seems the outer two posts were the signal, this was not the orgional guess. Need to purchase a meter.

completed cable

Ports in ashtray for plugs to connect

Decided on a KISS method on designing the cradle part. I just removed the area where the plug comes up. This also allows for the charger not having to be permanently attached. I used some spare anti slip matt to kill the rattling and vibrations(thanx Jenn:P) v1.0 used this as well haha This time looped the stuff to have a slight suspension on it.

When I first got my RS the car was equipped with the ‘brain’ for keyless entry but I was not given any remotes with purchase. After learning that the module was there for the keyless I was able to source 2 Fobs on ebay for the car for under $20. These fobs were used for and were not in the greatest of shape.. but the worked after reprogramming!! One of the two units had the ring used to attach it to your key ring broken, the other broke after about 2-3months of use. From there it sat unused while unable to source a new case for the fob.

And then it hit me.. I purchased some supplies.

Then I shaved the corners of the fob round so they wouldnt get caught on things and glued the sucker to a high power little flash light!! The light has three modes of operation. a High, low, blink and off.

Back in action.  Question your self what would macgyver do.. then do it.

I have a new interest in these codes

I’m looking to find new uses for these bar codes with an extra dimension.

Notice the horse in the center of this code. This is the first time I have seen this used.

“Action expresses priorities.”, Mohandas Gandhi

I mean really.. who doesn’t like beef jerky.

Bought some bulk roasts at costco. Each pack some where around 5lbs.

Sliced the roast along the grain ~1/3 inch slices.  Then cut the slices into ~1/2 inch sticks.

Gander Mountain had a bunch of spice / cure packs.  I got crack pepper garlic and bourbon bbq.  The bbq pack is going to get smoked for its drying

24hrs in the fridge is where it stands until is done marinading.  Then on to the dehydrator / smoker.

UPDATE: Bam!