Sync cradle substitute

[rodger_copp]

You can successfully use the sync/power dongle that comes with an AC or DC adapter work on the NZ as a syncing and charging device. Sony says to only use the cradle for such activity. However, you can do it if you're careful and do some preparation.

If you do nothing to the adapter, it will go into the sync port snuggly. I wasn't comfortable putting this stress on the NZ. I took my pocket knife and "scraped" away the plastic near the end of the adapter until it slid in easily. Scrape the side that doesn't have the logo, and scrape only what you need to.

I intend to build up the other end with those little rubber sticky pads that you find on the bottom of stuff to eliminate he gap between the sync/power adapter and the Clie so it won't flex toward the body of the Clie. You can get these pads from hardware stores.

It's worth it to me. I saved myself $70 and I get to use it easily while its plugged in. That cradle is pretty useless. I expect some enterprising firm will soon make a "factory" connector to do the same thing.

You can see some pics here. Yes they were done with the Clie. I never realized how useful always having a camera would be. This NZ has to be the invention of the year.

http://www.aero.und.edu/~copp/clie/

[lanchman]

OK, so I'm reading your post thinking this guy is doing what? I understand now, the pics helped. Good idea BTW.

[rodger_copp]

I just put up a couple more pics. Check 'em out if you want to see how I'm avoiding the sync cradle. Very useful in the car and on the desk.

I think I'll forget the JB Weld (messy) and just get some of those adhesive rubber feet from the hardware store.

http://www.aero.und.edu/~copp/clie/

Rodger

[kkerruish]

Nice thing about using this method with the design of the Clamshell clies is that you can partially open the clamshell and it's a self supporting display...:)

THis is the only method I use...the cradle that came with the device is used on my nightstand as an overnight charger...

[eric2002]

I also found a cool looking retractable "hotsync/charging" cable at this site ( I ordered my Brando screen protector from them...)

http://shop.brando.com.hk/bwretractablesynccharger.php

their cable is $17.00, but they also sell a non-retractable one for $15.00

[LoneWolf]

What do you guys think of this????????

http://www.mobileplanet.com/product.asp?dept%5Fid=3702&pf%5Fid=MP301702&listing=1

[rodger_copp]

I'm really pleased with what I put together. I've considered the external battery devices, but don't think the 9v option would be the way to go. I don't think that 9v battery would last long on the z.

rc

[LoneWolf]

Thanks for your opinion rodger-copp....

[nznznz]

Be careful of the retractable cable, ask the supplier if it has a mini circuit board inside for protection purpose. I take apart one of those retractable cable and found out it only has stright through wires inside! Just like you jump start your car battery.

[hausponce]

Great idea. I have those plugs evreywhere.

[brwilcox]

I was at Best Buy today and a Salesman stated that they had
around 50 Power/Sync Adapters for the NZ and he would give
me one for free!! How about that!?

[Stumper]

I have the retractable sync cable as shown from Brando. Works great. It's a combination sync / charge cable and is just what the doctor ordered. No more having to lug around the cradle and two cables to hook to my laptop. It charges fine. The guys at Brando assured me that it would work fine. So far no problems. Their screen protector really rocks as well.

[JohnJ80]

I have both the retractable cable and the blue tooth belkin shark fin.

I only sync now with bluetooth, so very convenient. I only charge with the retractable cable or the dongle with the external power supply.

I might as well throw that damn cradle away. its useless.

just my $0.02 anyway.

j