[WIP] The Nook Color Backpack....

To avoid jacking Verygreens thread on usb host support, I am creating this thread for development of the Nook Color Backpack.

What is the Backpack, you ask?

The Backpack will be an open hardware based addon similar in style to the sliders used on Compaq(HP) iPaqs. It will be self contained in that it will carry its own battery source for powering USB peripherals and also a few built in goodies such as a camera module, stereo speakers(possibly amplified), and possibly a GPS module.

This thread is to help others who may want to build a similar device and to accept input from the community on its design. PLEASE, refrain from any flame wars or other similar postings.

Feel free to post with suggestions, comments or even criticism(as long as it is constructive).

Sparkfun.com sells a bunch of stuff that would make for a good prototype:

5V 600mA boost converter and LiIon charger (w/ microusb charging port):
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10300

2Ah single LiPo cell:
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8483

microUSB plug - right angle breakout:
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10031

USB A socket:
http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9011

If you were planning to use a hub you'd need a more capable boost converter or go with 2 LiPo cells in series and step-down. For a proof-of-concept I think you can get pretty far with these parts.

It took some googling for me to figure out what you were trying to do, but I see now you want to make a hard case that slides over the back of the NC with some hardware integrated.

My main criticism is that the backpack form factor is really optimized for handheld devices, and the NC is already pushing the practical weight for a handheld device. We're looking at easily another 1lb or more with this hardware, rendering it more of a docking station, at which point an actual docking station with a keyboard makes more sense.

Still, if you do want to design a backpack, consider incorporating stands and grips to make it more ergonomic. For instance, you could have fold-out tripod legs, or a picture-frame style easel, and indentations or possibly even finger loops.

Personally, I would prefer a genuine dock to serve as the 'other half of the laptop,' without requiring that the NC be either permanently attached to all that hardware or removed from its primary case.

Well, I have most of my parts and the Sugru arrived a few days ago. I'm waiting on my second keyboard & case to come in (the one I'm gonna hack on). I would have made some more progress but I somehow ended up with pneumonia in July and now work is going to slow me down again. I'll see if I can get things put together and at least functional next week. Not moving as fast as I wanted, but I'll have some pics posted soon.