USB power?

[Brandon_L]

Wow I like the Altoids container thing, I have a ton of them laying around, Ill try that

Thanks guys

EDIT:
After more shopping around, I found http://www.unplggd.com/unplggd/diy-p...charger-100359

Gonna try that out tomorrow.

[Chris is me]

With appropriate tools and a spare iPod or USB cable to cut up, you can make something that can power any USB device out of a 9v battery. You need something to limit the voltage to 5 volts (I forget what it's called, but it's at Radio Shack), but it's really handy to have in your pocket when you need to power a Nintendo DS (not a USB device but can charge off USB current), iPhone, iPod, or camera for an hour or so.

I bought my dad all the parts he'd need to make his own, wrapped them in a box, and gave it to him for his birthday. I hope he figures out how to put it together by May.

----

As for your iPod, I would recommend you get the battery changed in it. You can do it yourself for $40. If it's in warranty you can send it to Apple for free.

[Brandon_L]

Im having a hard time tracking down a female usb port. On ebay theres like bundles of 20 for like 15$. I only will buy one, from a US seller.

I looked at radio shack also, they didn't have any...(at least on the website)

[Chris is me]

Look for usb extension cables of any sort, then just cut off the cable part and use the power wires for your project.

[Brandon_L]

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-USB-2-0-A-MA...item5190b2459f

Just checken if that would be ok. Looks to me like the wires arnt colored (or Im just paranoid about screwing this up...)

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Brandon,
The batteries in iPods die after a while and are fairly easy to replace. There are many sources on the Internet and you can also find detailed instructions on how to open the case without damaging anything. Most places that sell the battery also include case openers at no charge. The battery comes with a flex circuit board already attached, there is no soldering. Simply open the case, remove the battery and release the flex. Reverse operation with the new battery and close it up. Then charge of course, the battery is not shipped charged.