Home made "dock" for the Transformer - Eee Pad Transformer Accessories

Well, since it's taking so long for both Asus and 3rd parties to come with accessories for the transformer, I decided to take advantage of some foamcore scraps I had, and made me a "dock" for videochat, video watching and gaming. I say it's a "dock" because it is simply a bunch of foamcore boards, paper and glue (I'll probably seal it, sandpaper it, and paint it)
Right now, it's very handy, for using the tablet without having to hold it. It's angled, at a very confty angle, and doesn't get in the way (the keyboard dock, while awesome, gets in the way)
I had the images in my Dropbox gallery, but had to attach them because I'm a new user though a long time lurker. The good thing about putting them in the dropbox would be that I could add and update the pics at any time, without having to come back to the post, and edit it. Oh, and the picstures would be clearer, since I'm taking them with a 12 MPixel cam. Well, at least it keeps linkspam out of XDA

I must admit I am thinking of making my own dock via the use of a decorative plate stand (you know the ones, fold open to 90 degrees, have a lip at the bottom)
Like this one

Pretty cool idea there, but I have a question.. You can find your apps on that home screen?? It's crazy!

ericcarboni said:
Pretty cool idea there, but I have a question.. You can find your apps on that home screen?? It's crazy!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I can, but I agree that it's not for everybody. What I do, is having the apps grouped spacially. 90% of the apps I use are on that screen. I really don't like going to the app drawer

you can always use a "folder type" system like smart shortcuts so u can categorize apps into "folders".
The plate idea is cool but ya might want to check out the arkon stand. same concept but its collapsible.
http://www.amazon.com/IPAD-ST-Unive...2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1312309239&sr=1-2

I use one of these at work (we have plenty in the supply closet):
I just put it on there upside down and let the screen rotate 180 degrees so I can plug in the charger up top. I can also put books of various sizes on the back end, to adjust screen angles.

@carrrnuttt - lol, thats brilliant
(..although i'd add some nice felt between the 'stand' and TF)
In case anyone was wandering (as i was) - this is a Black Mesh Business Card Holder - so you can pretend that is what you'll use it for

stujuk said:
I must admit I am thinking of making my own dock via the use of a decorative plate stand (you know the ones, fold open to 90 degrees, have a lip at the bottom)
Like this one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have this, the only issue i have with it is it does not lean back enough.

Why not just buy a cheap leather folio case for the transformer for $10 from ebay, they all have the ability to stand the TF up at an angle for video viewing/video chat etc
such as this one

brett_day said:
Why not just buy a cheap leather folio case for the transformer for $10 from ebay, they all have the ability to stand the TF up at an angle for video viewing/video chat etc
such as this one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've got one of those and I have to say it's not very good when you've got the Transformer oriented the normal way (camera at the top) because the flap that covers the bottom (Dock connector) doesn't hold well so the tablet slides down quite a bit. Great as a standard case for holding, and having with the camera at the bottom, but not so great with you have it stood with the camera at the top.

ant_thomas said:
I've got one of those and I have to say it's not very good when you've got the Transformer oriented the normal way (camera at the top) because the flap that covers the bottom (Dock connector) doesn't hold well so the tablet slides down quite a bit. Great as a standard case for holding, and having with the camera at the bottom, but not so great with you have it stood with the camera at the top.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have this case and it works perfectly. Super snug fit, no slippage, anyway, just thought i would throw that out there. I am happy with mine.

Found a way to charge mine while it is the right way around in my home made dock too.
The case hooks onto the edge of the dock leaving enough gap to plug in the charger
The plastic dock is from my GFs laptop, supposed to be a stand for that, and the thing I bent into a pyramid is a leather place mat
---------------

brett_day said:
I have this case and it works perfectly. Super snug fit, no slippage, anyway, just thought i would throw that out there. I am happy with mine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe mine was an early model and wasn't designed too well.

Related

Tilt2 Praetorian Crystal Slip cover review (Hard-rubberized)

This is my first review, so I hope it doesn't suck.
Both my wife and I have the Tilt 2. I decided to go with InvisibleShield while she wanted a case. After looking at all the comments here about cases not fitting, I decided to go with 2 different ones from Amazon. One fit horribly, so i wont even mention it.
She is using the Tilt2 Praetorian Slip and she loves it. Installation was a little tough as the fit is pretty precise. I suggest installing the top (screen) side first and then the bottom (keyboard). Install both with the KB extended. I have attached pics of the fit.
The only complaint I have (she thinks of it as a feature) is that the cover makes it a little more difficult to slide out the keyboard. She like it because it used to slide open in her purse (mostly because of the fact that she keeps it in an inside pocket of her purse which causes it to hit just right against crap she has in another pocket). Overall, this is a pretty nice cover. I am sure you can get it cheaper than amazon, but I had gift certificates to spend
Hope this helps!
Thanks for the review! I bought the same case a few months ago, although it was advertised as for the Verizon Touch Pro 2. I was unaware they made one for the Tilt 2. Now I won't have to worry about it falling off randomly!
thsi case probably wouldnt work with invisible shield on too huh
Doinshots said:
This is my first review, so I hope it doesn't suck.
Both my wife and I have the Tilt 2. I decided to go with InvisibleShield while she wanted a case. After looking at all the comments here about cases not fitting, I decided to go with 2 different ones from Amazon. One fit horribly, so i wont even mention it.
She is using the Tilt2 Praetorian Slip and she loves it. Installation was a little tough as the fit is pretty precise. I suggest installing the top (screen) side first and then the bottom (keyboard). Install both with the KB extended. I have attached pics of the fit.
The only complaint I have (she thinks of it as a feature) is that the cover makes it a little more difficult to slide out the keyboard. She like it because it used to slide open in her purse (mostly because of the fact that she keeps it in an inside pocket of her purse which causes it to hit just right against crap she has in another pocket). Overall, this is a pretty nice cover. I am sure you can get it cheaper than amazon, but I had gift certificates to spend
Hope this helps!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Neat.. glad yours fit. I ordered one for the Tilt2 from Amazon as well, and Boxwave sent one labeled 'Touch Pro 2'. I see yours doesn't have a cutout area for the PTT button either, do you have issues with that? My praetorian case would almost always trigger the PTT button whenever I handled the phone.
The top/screen portion of my Praetorian didn't fit right and opening and closing the top was almost impossible - even ended up ripping off the protective plastic along one side of the keyboard. (the protective plastic that is designed to be there, not the temporary stuff it whipped with) I can see just by looking at your pictures that your screen portion fits waay better than mine did.
When I contacted Boxwave about the issues, no questions asked and they sent a postage paid label for the return. I'd love to try this case again, as I did like the feel of it, but nervous about another no-fit. I went with BodyGuardz instead.. not sure I'm happy with those..
Thanks,
I´ll include it on the main thread
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=524059
JJHiemenz said:
Neat.. glad yours fit. I ordered one for the Tilt2 from Amazon as well, and Boxwave sent one labeled 'Touch Pro 2'. I see yours doesn't have a cutout area for the PTT button either, do you have issues with that? My praetorian case would almost always trigger the PTT button whenever I handled the phone.
The top/screen portion of my Praetorian didn't fit right and opening and closing the top was almost impossible - even ended up ripping off the protective plastic along one side of the keyboard. (the protective plastic that is designed to be there, not the temporary stuff it whipped with) I can see just by looking at your pictures that your screen portion fits waay better than mine did.
When I contacted Boxwave about the issues, no questions asked and they sent a postage paid label for the return. I'd love to try this case again, as I did like the feel of it, but nervous about another no-fit. I went with BodyGuardz instead.. not sure I'm happy with those..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Man, sorry you had so many issues. The PTT button is indeed covered, but she has had no issues with it at all (hers is remapped to toggle bluetooth on and off). The fit on the screen portion is *very* tight. Took some effort to get it installed properly.
Also, mine definitely said "Tilt 2" on the packaging.
It is disappointing that it covers the PTT button. I assume your wife has abandoned that function (easily switching BT on/off)?
Thanks for posting reviews on this case -- I'm trying to decide what route to take to give my new Tilt 2 some added protection, and more importantly, cut down on the slickness/smudge magnet-ness of the shiny battery cover (which is my #1 gripe with the GSM TP2, both CDMA versions have rubberized covers which won't fit their GSM siblings due to the placement of the 3.5 mm jack).
I really wish someone made a rubberized battery cover to replace the shiny OEM one. These snap on type cases are okay, but they become a major pain as soon as you need to pop off the battery cover in order to flash a new ROM (as I do often), reset the device, or swap out memory cards. I worry trying to snap-in and pry off these cases frequently will damage the phone -- especially when it's a super snug fit. IMHO, a rubberized battery cover, along with perhaps the upper portion of this case to protect the chrome bezel from getting nicked would be an ideal solution! I may just go down to Home Depot this weekend and see if they have a spray that can rubberize plastic, then I might just buy a spare OEM battery cover and see if I can rubberize it.
sleze said:
It is disappointing that it covers the PTT button. I assume your wife has abandoned that function (easily switching BT on/off)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, the PTT button still works perfectly under the cover. Does not get accidentally pressed and is responsive when you push it.
azwildcat98 said:
Thanks for posting reviews on this case -- I'm trying to decide what route to take to give my new Tilt 2 some added protection, and more importantly, cut down on the slickness/smudge magnet-ness of the shiny battery cover (which is my #1 gripe with the GSM TP2, both CDMA versions have rubberized covers which won't fit their GSM siblings due to the placement of the 3.5 mm jack).
I really wish someone made a rubberized battery cover to replace the shiny OEM one. These snap on type cases are okay, but they become a major pain as soon as you need to pop off the battery cover in order to flash a new ROM (as I do often), reset the device, or swap out memory cards. I worry trying to snap-in and pry off these cases frequently will damage the phone -- especially when it's a super snug fit. IMHO, a rubberized battery cover, along with perhaps the upper portion of this case to protect the chrome bezel from getting nicked would be an ideal solution! I may just go down to Home Depot this weekend and see if they have a spray that can rubberize plastic, then I might just buy a spare OEM battery cover and see if I can rubberize it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like skinning/shielding your phone with GadgetShieldz might be the way to go. The GadgetShieldz does take a little time to install but it works. The protective film on the screen is easy to install and bubble free. It makes the phone non-slippery. It would not protect the phone like a case but it does prevent scratches. When installed, it adds very little weight and dimension to the phone.
Actually, there are other protective films/shields but I only have experience with GadgetShieldZ. It might work for you.
Boxwave Praetorian Crystal Slip for Tilt 2
orb3000 said:
Thanks,
I´ll include it on the main thread
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=524059
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to report on this, I got one of these in the mail yesterday. So far I love it. It wasn't terribly difficult to get on. It fits very well too. My only real complaint is that it doesn't accommodate the PTT button that the Tilt 2 has right next to the volume buttons. It's not a big issue since I don't use PTT and the case doesn't prohibit using the key anyway.
Just be careful and make sure you order the one that specifically says it's for the Tilt 2. They make other models. I know they have the Praetorian on eBay but to be safe I opted to get mine directly from Boxwave. I got what I ordered too and could have used they're return policy if I needed.
Oh...I'll be happy to post pics if anyone wants but I think someone already put some up of this one a Tilt2.
azwildcat98 said:
Thanks for posting reviews on this case -- I'm trying to decide what route to take to give my new Tilt 2 some added protection, and more importantly, cut down on the slickness/smudge magnet-ness of the shiny battery cover (which is my #1 gripe with the GSM TP2, both CDMA versions have rubberized covers which won't fit their GSM siblings due to the placement of the 3.5 mm jack).
I really wish someone made a rubberized battery cover to replace the shiny OEM one. These snap on type cases are okay, but they become a major pain as soon as you need to pop off the battery cover in order to flash a new ROM (as I do often), reset the device, or swap out memory cards. I worry trying to snap-in and pry off these cases frequently will damage the phone -- especially when it's a super snug fit. IMHO, a rubberized battery cover, along with perhaps the upper portion of this case to protect the chrome bezel from getting nicked would be an ideal solution! I may just go down to Home Depot this weekend and see if they have a spray that can rubberize plastic, then I might just buy a spare OEM battery cover and see if I can rubberize it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish I'd seen your post sooner! Home Depot and Lowe's does indeed have something like that. I'm sure lots of hardware stores do. It's called Plasti-Dip. I have a can right here You can buy it as spray-on or dip/brush-on applications. I use it on mountain bike parts and tools for extra grip. I'm not positive how well it will stick to a slick plastic surface but it is an option.
BluEyedTiger said:
Just to report on this, I got one of these in the mail yesterday. So far I love it. It wasn't terribly difficult to get on. It fits very well too. My only real complaint is that it doesn't accommodate the PTT button that the Tilt 2 has right next to the volume buttons. It's not a big issue since I don't use PTT and the case doesn't prohibit using the key anyway.
Just be careful and make sure you order the one that specifically says it's for the Tilt 2. They make other models. I know they have the Praetorian on eBay but to be safe I opted to get mine directly from Boxwave. I got what I ordered too and could have used they're return policy if I needed.
Oh...I'll be happy to post pics if anyone wants but I think someone already put some up of this one a Tilt2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey man, I'm thinking about ordering this case and I wanted to see if you still like it and how it has held up over the past month. Thanks.
BehindTheLight said:
Hey man, I'm thinking about ordering this case and I wanted to see if you still like it and how it has held up over the past month. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ordered one from BoxWave and I think I'm still going to shop around for something else. It seems like the Tilt2 has less options than the other variations of the Rhodium so people may just be settling for this due to "Slim Pickin's."
I like the way the gel gives more texture and grip to the phone, but I still feel uneasy because it's definitely not a snug fit. The part that covers the screen section of the phone is very flimsy and after you get it on, you want to keep checking it to make sure that it is attached; it feels like it can easily slip off at any time. This is specifically evident when you slide your screen up and tilt it. Tap the top right, or the middle section that really has no grip around the phone, and it might just pop off...
I still have it on my phone because it is the lesser of two evils, have something vs. not having something, but are there any other options for the Tilt2?
BehindTheLight said:
Hey man, I'm thinking about ordering this case and I wanted to see if you still like it and how it has held up over the past month. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's held up quiet nice...even with as much flashing I do (have to remove the bottom piece every time). I've figured out a great way to put it back on that's really fast and easy. Some people say it's difficult to get on. I think the top piece is the hard part but I've taken it off a few times and have no issues there either. It still fits good. If I remember, next time I take it off I'll shoot some pics of how I put it on and upload them.
Learic said:
I ordered one from BoxWave and I think I'm still going to shop around for something else. It seems like the Tilt2 has less options than the other variations of the Rhodium so people may just be settling for this due to "Slim Pickin's."
I like the way the gel gives more texture and grip to the phone, but I still feel uneasy because it's definitely not a snug fit. The part that covers the screen section of the phone is very flimsy and after you get it on, you want to keep checking it to make sure that it is attached; it feels like it can easily slip off at any time. This is specifically evident when you slide your screen up and tilt it. Tap the top right, or the middle section that really has no grip around the phone, and it might just pop off...
I still have it on my phone because it is the lesser of two evils, have something vs. not having something, but are there any other options for the Tilt2?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't really had any trouble with mine popping off. It took a bit to get the top on right and it was a pretty snug fit too. Getting the corner edges all the way tucked under was the hardest part. I'm guessing it's a manufacturing thing. Some say it's a tight fit and other say it's loose. I will agree that the sides on the top piece are flimsy because they're not attached the the phone but if they were it would probably make matters worse by either rubbing against the bottom piece or creating too big of a gap between the two parts of the phone.
I agree there aren't many options for the Tilt 2 and I hate to say it but there probably won't be.
BluEyedTiger said:
I haven't really had any trouble with mine popping off. It took a bit to get the top on right and it was a pretty snug fit too. Getting the corner edges all the way tucked under was the hardest part. I'm guessing it's a manufacturing thing. Some say it's a tight fit and other say it's loose. I will agree that the sides on the top piece are flimsy because they're not attached the the phone but if they were it would probably make matters worse by either rubbing against the bottom piece or creating too big of a gap between the two parts of the phone.
I agree there aren't many options for the Tilt 2 and I hate to say it but there probably won't be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If yours is a snug fit, I wonder if we received the same thing! Did you order from BoxWave? I have a little plastic tool that I used to get the corners onto the top half quickly which was actually made to fit into the creavice of a HTC Dash phone to pop the clips and take the phone apart. It works great and I can see the little flaps around the corner so you can tell the corners of the phone are between the gel lips.. It's still too easy to come off though..
Even though my receipt says "Praetorian Crystal Slip, HTC Tilt2, Smoke Grey - SKU: bw-268-3729-2808", it also says "ITEM: HTC TOUCH PRO2." The Box also has a white sticker in the top right that says "Praetorian Crystal Slip - TOUCH PRO2."
Do you remember if yours said the same? Maybe they somehow shipped me the wrong one?
Learic said:
If yours is a snug fit, I wonder if we received the same thing! Did you order from BoxWave? I have a little plastic tool that I used to get the corners onto the top half quickly which was actually made to fit into the creavice of a HTC Dash phone to pop the clips and take the phone apart. It works great and I can see the little flaps around the corner so you can tell the corners of the phone are between the gel lips.. It's still too easy to come off though..
Even though my receipt says "Praetorian Crystal Slip, HTC Tilt2, Smoke Grey - SKU: bw-268-3729-2808", it also says "ITEM: HTC TOUCH PRO2." The Box also has a white sticker in the top right that says "Praetorian Crystal Slip - TOUCH PRO2."
Do you remember if yours said the same? Maybe they somehow shipped me the wrong one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I got mine directly from boxwave. They have like 3 different models of that slip. Most of the adds I saw on Amazon and eBay claimed it would fit on 3 or 4 different TP2 models which I knew it wouldn't. I emailed boxwave about the pics in their online catalog because it didn't look like a Tilt 2 to me and they admitted it wasn't. They said they didn't have one for the pics. Which made sense I mean why spend that much just to get pics but they promised it would fit so I figured what the hell. The hard covers kinda suck.
Thanks for the replies, I guess I will go ahead and order it and see what happens.
I just got the unbranded version of this case off ebay (the seller's id was e-story).
It's not too bad on my unbranded TP2. It's slightly more difficult to slide out the keyboard, and when the screen is fully tilted, the top row of keys are slightly obscured, but nothing too major in my opinion.
I like that the case improves the grip of the phone, but I'm also rather concerned that the case will eventually melt under hotter conditions since the material feels rather gummy.

[Q] Keyboard dock deformity?

I got myself a prime last week, promptly ordered a keyboard because nobody had one in stock and I didn't feel like paying a $70 dollar premium on amazon to get it in the future anyway, and received the dock yesterday.
Electrically, the dock seems fine - all of the keys work, it charged normally, it's discharging normally, etc. - but it appears to have a physical deformity at the front of the unit. I took a picture of the unit to demonstrate... unfortunately, as some of you are no doubt aware, taking close-focus pictures of smallish things with an android camera is a little tough. Still, see attached image for the illustration. Note the gap between the rubber stopper and the fact that you can see the palm rest surface despite looking at the tray head on.
The question is, of course, "is this normal?" Does anyone else have a warped dock? It seems like the trackpad buttons don't quite click as easily as I think they should, but I don't have anything to compare it to. None of the local Best Buy stores have a dock on display, either.
[edit]I started this thread in the wrong forum and moved it here, then forgot to attach the file. Here's a link to an imgur-hosted copy:
http://i.imgur.com/Bn0la.jpg
nurrwick said:
I got myself a prime last week, promptly ordered a keyboard because nobody had one in stock and I didn't feel like paying a $70 dollar premium on amazon to get it in the future anyway, and received the dock yesterday.
Electrically, the dock seems fine - all of the keys work, it charged normally, it's discharging normally, etc. - but it appears to have a physical deformity at the front of the unit. I took a picture of the unit to demonstrate... unfortunately, as some of you are no doubt aware, taking close-focus pictures of smallish things with an android camera is a little tough. Still, see attached image for the illustration. Note the gap between the rubber stopper and the fact that you can see the palm rest surface despite looking at the tray head on.
The question is, of course, "is this normal?" Does anyone else have a warped dock? It seems like the trackpad buttons don't quite click as easily as I think they should, but I don't have anything to compare it to. None of the local Best Buy stores have a dock on display, either.
[edit]I started this thread in the wrong forum and moved it here, then forgot to attach the file. Here's a link to an imgur-hosted copy:
http://i.imgur.com/Bn0la.jpg
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When mine is closed, the lid touches the rubber bumper on the keyboard which is what I would expect. Yours doesn't seem to close properly.
Thanks - that's what I suspected. It contacts the two rubber pads on the sides, so this poor thing is the victim of a god-knows-what. The box was completely undamaged so I guess someone sat on it at the factory.
Obviously anyone else that wants to weigh in is welcome to do so - on this topic, anyway, I don't recommend actually weighing in on the keyboard dock because I guess it will bend.
Yep, looks bent, as if it was laying on a soft rocking chair, couch or something undocked and someone sat on it. You could take your knee to the back of it with a hand on each side and try to bend it back You may end up with a creased unit afterward though... I'd send it back as a return and try to find one somewhere else.
My keyboard dock also came with a slight bend to it (from a UK Grey BC0KAS batch). I didn't notice it at first, but when I put the keyboard on a flat surface when closed, it wobbled. Towards the back the centre of the metal was coming into contact with the table, so the rubber feet were slightly raised.
I was able to gently apply pressure, using a soft cloth, to the metal around this area and correct this so it's not really noticeable now.
Also, when the tablet is docked, and closed, there is a slightly larger gap on the right side between the screen and keyboard than the left. It makes contact with all 3 rubber pads, but it's definitely there.
I'm still contemplating returning the whole lot to Comet, as I have 3 stuck pixels, and have been experiencing poor WiFi and some crashes.
Quality control definitely could have been better here.
SO! I went to another Best Buy that actually had docks in stock, did an exchange, and the second dock is bent as well. That said, the buttons on the trackpad actually click easily on this unit, so I think I'm going to keep it especially given how difficult it is to find anything with a TF-201 in its model number in stock.
It'd be interesting to see how many docks have warping or if it's supposed to be there. I guess it could be Asus' way of giving us space to fit our fingers in to open the unit...
Turns out mine was slightly bent too. I never would have noticed had it not been for this thread... Lol, anyway...mine was bent slightly in the middle. The middle rubber stopper didn't touch when cosed. It is really, really easy to bend this though...i just put pressure in the middle from behind and pushed slightly and the gap has disappeared.
I don't have the dock yet but this will be on my new dock QC checklist when I do get one. I'm not planning on getting one for a while so hopefully stuff like this will be ironed out by Asus and stocking levels are better. I'm thinking August (my birthday).

Keyboard dock opens "itself"

Hey guys,
just thought i would be completely happy with my tfp but then i noticed the following:
my keyboard dock sort of "opens itself" at the back when i close and open it while the tablet is docked in. i only can fix it by press it together until next time i move the tablet.
i am pretty pretty sure that wasn't the case when i closed it last night...
the dock still works perfectly but there is this "cracking" noise each time i press on the "open" edges
any suggestions? i don't want to send it back because the tablet finally works...
Thanks!
Here you can see the problem:
http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg7/scaled.php?server=7&filename=img20120207150812.jpg&res=iphone
Edit: maybe it has to do with the temperature. Actually its really very cold here in Germany. Because of that you have to heat a lot during the day. At night it becomes cold again around my working spot. After using the dock for a couple of hours now, it seems to get better.
Having the same issue with mine.
okay, then it's probably not the temperature...
i am pretty sure i could fix it by myself but i dont own the right screwdriver. anyone here who knows where i can buy one?
I'm going to keep an eye out for this, thanks for the heads-up. Honestly, if this starts happening to mine then I'm returning the whole thing and getting an ultrabook.
Definitely does not happen on mine, maybe it is temperature related or maybe a manufacturing glitch. I don't see why you'd have to return the whole tablet just to replace the dock.
i don't know if my retailer takes back just the dock...
NeoteriX said:
Definitely does not happen on mine, maybe it is temperature related or maybe a manufacturing glitch. I don't see why you'd have to return the whole tablet just to replace the dock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In some international markets, the Prime was only sold in a bundle with a dock. So, it's entirely possible that only the bundle can be returned/replaced...
That's the case in Germany. 32GB bundle or 64GB tablet only.
Same issue here. It happens if you grab the tablet by the dock like you would a notebook (one hand, left front corner). The weight of the tablet is just too much for the dock's structural integrety (I LOVE StarTrek TechTalk ;-) ) so it cracks open at the opposite corner.
Since I didn't want to pry it open and refix it I just applied two stripes of Tesa to each side at the back of the dock to prevent it from opening. Works like a charm and if you take transparent stripes it's almost invisible.
oneandonlyetet said:
okay, then it's probably not the temperature...
i am pretty sure i could fix it by myself but i dont own the right screwdriver. anyone here who knows where i can buy one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This has a Torx T5 bit in it. I just tested it on my Prime and it fits perfectly.
If that doesn't work for you in Germany (it's the US Amazon) just google "Teeny Turner" and see what you can find.
I can get them for about $3 US at Microcenter, but they don't show up in their online catalog.
PM me if you can't find one for under $10 US and we'll work something out.
Kashban said:
Same issue here. It happens if you grab the tablet by the dock like you would a notebook (one hand, left front corner). The weight of the tablet is just too much for the dock's structural integrety (I LOVE StarTrek TechTalk ;-) ) so it cracks open at the opposite corner.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe they actually mention it in the manual that to pick up the tablet with attached dock you should grab it near the place where it docks instead of the tablet alone. They don't especially mention lifting it from the corners of the dock, but the same thing basically applies. The tablet is quite heavy and keyboard dock is very slim, so it is a good idea to lift the device by holding the tablet and the dock at the same time or holding near the place where the devices are docked.
wynand32 said:
In some international markets, the Prime was only sold in a bundle with a dock. So, it's entirely possible that only the bundle can be returned/replaced...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is correct, my keyboard did not work at all while the tablet itself was perfect and I had to return both even as I feared that the replacement tablet will be worse. And it is worse thanks to some light bleed, but it wasn't too bad.
wynand32 said:
In some international markets, the Prime was only sold in a bundle with a dock. So, it's entirely possible that only the bundle can be returned/replaced...
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Click to collapse
Thanks for the correction --
phoned asus today and they said it would be okay to send in the dock without the tablet.
it not only opens when i grab it at the corner, but it also does that when i open the tablet like a notebook...
thanks to col.kernel btw
oneandonlyetet said:
phoned asus today and they said it would be okay to send in the dock without the tablet.
it not only opens when i grab it at the corner, but it also does that when i open the tablet like a notebook...
thanks to col.kernel btw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad to be of service.
oneandonlyetet said:
okay, then it's probably not the temperature...
i am pretty sure i could fix it by myself but i dont own the right screwdriver. anyone here who knows where i can buy one?
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Click to collapse
I am pretty sure it is the screws that hold the hinge have come loose and everytime pressure is added to either side trying to close the hinge it is causing the hinge inside the dock to twist and separate the the dock. I have seen it on laptops many times. Opening it up and tightening the screws usually fixes it.
Yatyas said:
I am pretty sure it is the screws that hold the hinge have come loose and everytime pressure is added to either side trying to close the hinge it is causing the hinge inside the dock to twist and separate the the dock. I have seen it on laptops many times. Opening it up and tightening the screws usually fixes it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now I know why my dock feels stretched out! It's probably also because I used a skinomi skin! I hope it's just loose screws and not the foamy stuff that prevents scratching...
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA App
oneandonlyetet said:
phoned asus today and they said it would be okay to send in the dock without the tablet.
it not only opens when i grab it at the corner, but it also does that when i open the tablet like a notebook...
thanks to col.kernel btw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So did mine.
finally i decided to return it for a refund. bought a notebook instead... and it's working!

Problem with Dock coming apart around hinge area?

Hi all,
Today I suddenly noticed a click sound when putting my keyboard on the side and I found out that the case on the side of the hinge would come apart with little force.
It is easily replicated when you push the hinge push the hinge to the bottom and while holding the back case.
The problem is shown on the video below,
http://youtu.be/XS9zTEvvbzk
now, is it normal ? it seems like there are no screws holding that part together so it seems like it is bound to happen!
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For the Fix
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Just curious, how long have you had the dock? And how often do you connect and disconnect the prime from the dock?
My guess (and it's just a guess) is that the chassis on the edge uses snaps to keep the plate seams together. If this is true then it could be that something caused the snaps to break.
From what you're showing in the video, it definitely does not seem normal to me. I'm really hesitant to reproduce the issue with my own dock, so hopefully someone else in the forums whose had experience opening up the keyboard will provide some insight. In the meantime, if I were you, I would avoid any actions that would forcefully pry apart the chassis edge like that; it could aggravate the problem.
like i said, I barely need to use any force at all, just a a very small push.
I also figure out that the position of the hinge makes a difference as well.
If the hinge is in the "closed" position (imagine tablet docked with screen closed), it will not snap open.
it's when the hinge is opened up, the problem appears.
oO_SwooP_Oo said:
My guess (and it's just a guess) is that the chassis on the edge uses snaps to keep the plate seams together. If this is true then it could be that something caused the snaps to break.
From what you're showing in the video, it definitely does not seem normal to me. I'm really hesitant to reproduce the issue with my own dock, so hopefully someone else in the forums whose had experience opening up the keyboard will provide some insight. In the meantime, if I were you, I would avoid any actions that would forcefully pry apart the chassis edge like that; it could aggravate the problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anyone ?
just a yes or no so I can try to return it !
babadudu said:
Anyone ?
just a yes or no so I can try to return it !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Two weeks ago I started having this same problem. The slightest pressure pops it right back together. I don't know that I'll bother to return it. I would assume there is a good chance they all do, and that it may have something to do with the way we insert it and remove it from the dock.
I just noticed this problem the other day. It does it about half way when opening or closing. Kinda like the pins of the hinge push it open just a little.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
looks like it's not just me then, i am baffled that they didn't design screws to keep it together......
I have the same issues. The dock is generally just not well made. the back panel is too flexible, it pops open at the edges, and Ive noticed the hinges have gotten looser, and have a dead spot now, where the tablet can flap back and forth, similar to most laptops.
Same problem here. Just went to the shop on saturday and they sent it to Asus. Don't know yet, what happens.
Bought the prime about 10 weeks ago, so they don't want to exchange it without sending in here in Germany. I just wish there'd be ASUS-stores like Apple stores, where this would have been handled more easily...
As someone who has taken their dock apart to see what makes it tick i know there are several hidden screws inside the dock part of the keyboard (under a black sticker, hard to see or find if your not looking) that help hold the hinge together. i found my screen protector was adding pressure on the dock and removed some of the material so everything fit better tho after doing what i did i dont really recommend it to others.
I too am rather unimpressed with the construction of the dock however im not going to worry too much about it, if it gets too flimsy for my liking ill just take it apart again and tighten things up again.
I had this once but i just pressed it toghether slightly and it never happened again.
Pileot could you make a small video or take pictures of the screws you did tighten to make it better?
This just happened to me last night and I'm very deeply saddened.
I take the tablet out of the dock about once every two days, Max. I've had the dock for 12 days now. C1OKA to start the S/N. Amethyst. Bought it from Amazon 3/2.
No screen protector, no added weight. I noticed it happened when I grabbed the dock with the tablet open by the Asus sticker on the keyboard, with my hands on both side of the touchpad.
Entire backend popped open, both hinges, and alongside the bacl under the tablet slide.
Im going to see if Amazon will take it back and exchange otherwise Asus will get my backend fixed.
Any ideas to those of you who have opened it that will keep it in place? i don't want to put tape on it. But i understand the weight of the tablet in the dock fully extended changes the center of gravity putting more pressure on the bottom of the dock and if it only has tabs that is the reason it is popping open.
No breaks cracks scratches damage of any kind.
I too have a clicking dock.
Got the same problem with mine. It's only a month old and it seems to be the way I hold it whilst docked. I tend to hold it one handed by the black sticker whilst opening it with my left hand. Gonna send it to asus for a repair as it seems the catch as snapped. ANOTHER desgin floor.
Is there not a screw underneath the rubber ?
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
My docking station was also having this issue. THere's screws under the rubber feet of the dock. I had to tighten both screws near the hinge down and that resolved the hinge splitting. Who knows if it'll happen again, but it's a pretty simple fix.
Hi,
No issues with the dock whatsoever, however I did notice that at a 45degree angle the prime just closes by itself. Not sure if it was like that from the beginning but it seems like opening and closing does loosen the hinges hold a bit.
Anyone experienced this?
Hinge FIX
I meant to write this a few weeks ago.
So I have a C3 keyboard....My C1 from Amazon worked great for 13 days...then it "popped" at the hinge and i was like...oh ****...
In the pictures you can see where it pops and the hinge came apart.
What I found was the little old chinese lady who put these together on that specific day must have had a serious case of Arthritis....when i examined underneath the rubber feet, both screws on both sides were completely unscrewed. I got the right sized 6 star driver, popped the hinge back together (especially underneath the hinge-release area in the middle of the keyboard), and screwed them in but didn't overtighten. I checked to make sure the dock wouldn't pop out again by placing tablet in and holding it on both sides of the trackpad and it didn't pop open. Voila! Put a dollup of rubber cement on pads, stuck them back on, and let it dry. Happy again! I hope this works for you guys.
edit: screws are Phillips head, not 6 star. opened rest of dock with 6 star (not necessary for this fix); sorry for confusion. PS super glue works well too if no rubber cement
Your images are dead.
And they're back.
Perfect, thank's a lot. I had the same problem, and your solution worked 100% for me as well.

Broken Cradle Mod/Fix (*Gear S Dock*)

Ever since I bought this watch I wished there was a stand/display/dock for it, something that I could just lay it on at night to charge and would look good on my night stand, well last week my cradle broke, the ol' standard - top clip broke off problem (Still not sure why they changed the cradle from the Gear 1, but that's a whole other rant thread ...) needless to say I was pretty pissed, especially since I've read Samsung refuses to warranty the problem, plus are out of stock when forced to cough up another $30 bucks for an obvious manufacturer flaw, and the icing ... dealing with extortion from Amazon asking $50 for the cradle because the seller knows it can ask whatever they want ... supply and demand, I luckily got the hook on a new charger from a buddy I made here on XDA and I'm just waiting for it to arrive in the mail, in the meantime the frustration of clamping my watch against the cradle and hoping it'll be at 100% in the morning was pissing me off so I decided to try something, something I thought about long before a broken cradle.
Again I wanted a display or docking station for this that also charged it, like the retail display except I wouldn't need the security device in order for it to work lol, so I searched online for simple retail watch displays and found some, got em ordered, decided to skip over the cheap flimsy looking felt ones and get some nice acrylic ones, waiting for them to arrive ... but today I was out shopping with the wife and came across one of those cheap felt ones and decided to pick it up and fiddle until my acrylic ones showed up, basically a proof of concept or prototype before I make the final, came home and got to work.
Stuff needed:
Samsung Gear S Cradle (Broken or not)
Wrist watch display (Buy online or at a place like Michaels)
Hot Glue Gun
Velcro (The kind with double sided tape on the back)
Tiny ClamShell looking hair clips (Thanks Babe! Lol)
* This can be done with or without a broken cradle, if done like I have the cradle is simply velcroed to the watch display, allowing you to take it in or off anytime, the male side velcro attached to the cradle had double sided tape on the back, the female side of the velcro did not, so I hot glued it to the display, which i would recommend to keep it attached to the display.)
I First: Applied the sticky back side of the Male velcro to the back of the charging cradle.
Then Second: formed the arm of the display to cradle the curve of the Gear S cradle back.
Third: In that curve I hot glued the female side of the velcro to the watch display.
Fourth: attached the Gear S cradle centered up and put my Gear S watch onto the Cradle.
Fifth: Adjust and formed the watch displays metal according to my watch band size but keep it tight and firm with the clasp of my watch band was tucked under the watch display. This is actually how the display fixes the problem caused by the broken clip, the watch display holds the watch snug onto it while pushing the charging cradle against the back of the watch thus pushing the pins into the watch, making the clips useless.
Sixth: Hot glued 2 of my Wife's tiny ClamShell looking spring loaded pinch clasp hair clip things (sorry don't know what they are called lol) on the inside of the displays watch band holder and one on the base, allowing me to run the charging cable under and behind the docking station, especially since the side I HAVE to slide my watch onto the display is the side where the charger plugs into the cradle (watch stand has a place where the watches clasps or band slides under to sit between the base and band holder)
Overall this was a concept in my head and that tonight I aimed to prove could work, came out actually amazingly better then I would have thought, even with the crude McGuyver type stuff that I did to it to make it work, which I'll perfect on the final model, but I Def underestimated the felt watch displays, I honestly might even just keep using this one, the pic attached makes it look more crude than it is, not to mention there were still hot glue hairs on it lol, but I normal lighting this thing is beautiful looking with or without the watch attached and functional, the pics I took I added flash and brightened them so you could see what I did.
Overall im happy, this Worked like a charm!
CHECK OUT THE ATTACHED PICTURE FOR ALL THE ANGLES OF THIS DOCKING STATION AND ALSO HERE'S A VIDEO OF ME ATTACHING THE WATCH TO SHOW IT WORKS.
Samsung Gear S Broken Cradle Fix/Mod:
http://youtu.be/Iu89HW3ezPk
HOPE THIS HELPS SOMEONE! IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO MAKE ONE, LET ME KNOW IF YOU NEED ANY HELP!
Sorry for any typing errors or mispelling, I wrote this thread all from my Note 4, talk about hand cramps!
Dmac1984 said:
... so I decided to try something, something I thought about long before a broken cradle.
...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a lot of work but I certainly admire your inventiveness!!
apprentice said:
It's a lot of work but I certainly admire your inventiveness!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks!
Honestly once I saw where I wanted to go with it, only took about 10 mins to put it together, granted I had pre planned this and had all the materials and tools I needed, but it was worth the work, took no time and all, went together smooth like a premade kit and looks pretty good on my night stand and keeps me from throwing out or throwing the broken cradle in a drawer.
poor lock of cradle
The tutorial above is great..i found out another solution,practical but ugly of course..
excer said:
The tutorial above is great..i found out another solution,practical but ugly of course..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, and hey if a bottle works for the person then that's all that matters!
Excellent thread and creative solution. Might just give this a try... Thanks for sharing!
sefrcoko said:
Excellent thread and creative solution. Might just give this a try... Thanks for sharing!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem, glad you enjoyed!
Great write-up! I'll order a display thingie for when (not if) my cradle breaks!
I say this everywhere, but if people posted their solutions on Samsung's FB page, they may change their tune.
Maybe not the elegant ones, but pictures of the plastic bottle to hold a $300-400 watch together, 2 months after release, right before MWC where they will release yet another watch, would surely embarrass them into doing the right thing.
Dmac1984 said:
Thanks!
Honestly once I saw where I wanted to go with it, only took about 10 mins to put it together, granted I had pre planned this and had all the materials and tools I needed, but it was worth the work, took no time and all, went together smooth like a premade kit and looks pretty good on my night stand and keeps me from throwing out or throwing the broken cradle in a drawer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that looks freakin awesome....
cipherswitch said:
that looks freakin awesome....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, every night when I dock my watch I love it more and more, no more snapping the clips to the back and forcing the watch on and of fthe cradle, simply sets right right on and it's good, and looks awesome on my night stand, honestly couldn't ask for it to be better. Originally I was gonna do a acrylic one and clean it up, but you can see the clips it really looks retail unless you really look close at it.
Took ten minutes to make, went together like a Lego set ... and cost less than $10 to make.
For me, $4 because we already had the got glue gun and the wife had the clips.
Can't beat it. I'm happy, don't even care about replacing the cradle now.
LoL...it may fit around a beer bottle, then we can blame Samsung for our drinking problem...or even better, can the watch call my GF, when it senses the beer is almost empty....I'd pay for that ap! If it worked!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using XDA Free mobile app
Lol
Dmac1984 said:
Lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FRIK!! I guess i have the privilege of joining this exclusive club of broken cradles. This seems to be a design flaw on Samsung part. It took me 4 months, but over time, it seems almost inevitable for it to break.
Anyway,,,my solution. a rolled up sock seems to work for me, keeping the cradle in place.
le10017 said:
FRIK!! I guess i have the privilege of joining this exclusive club of broken cradles. This seems to be a design flaw on Samsung part. It took me 4 months, but over time, it seems almost inevitable for it to break.
Anyway,,,my solution. a rolled up sock seems to work for me, keeping the cradle in place.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Classy
Maybe if everybody posted their high-end solutions (bottles, socks, toys), Sammy would recognize it as bad publicity and do something about those darn cradles.
xendula said:
Classy
Maybe if everybody posted their high-end solutions (bottles, socks, toys), Sammy would recognize it as bad publicity and do something about those darn cradles.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am sure Samsung doesn't really care
Mine broke yesterday I was putting something with a bit of weight on top of the watch and it was charging I was going to call Samsung on Monday but guess I won't bother if they won't do anything to replace it for free will probably just buy another charging cradle
Sent from my Xperia Z Ultra using XDA Free mobile app
Nice! Going to do this when my dock breaks (since it seems inevitable) +1!
Might be worth noting that you can get a charge-only dock off ebay very cheap. Might do that and use it regularly and keep the OEM one with the battery for emergencies so when the clip breaks on my nightly charger I wont lose my backup battery.
Started a thread about mine being broken just wanted to share my new fix.
First buy another $350 watch and get one of these
Then hold the cradle and connect the watch.
Works rather well but unfortunate that I need to do this.
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/inflewence2
Ashton_Durkhun said:
Might be worth noting that you can get a charge-only dock off ebay very cheap. Might do that and use it regularly and keep the OEM one with the battery for emergencies so when the clip breaks on my nightly charger I wont lose my backup battery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got one of those, and the design is better than on the OEM cradle. It snaps on and off much smoother.
xendula said:
I got one of those, and the design is better than on the OEM cradle. It snaps on and off much smoother.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup! I'm glad I ordered a two pack of the non-battery types and already had one... when MY cradle broke. Same problem as the rest of you.
Unbelievable that they break like this. I'm nothing less than a Samsung FanBoy and this has put a damper on my enthusiasm for sure.

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