Hi,
I'm about to receive my Wizard soon, it's the 100 Model that Vodafone germany sells. Since I can not use a camera, and no provider hat the 110 model, I will try to remove the camera and get the back cover of a 110 model or a dummy. So my main questions are:
did anyone yet disassemble the wizard? Is it easy? pictures?
And which company sells a 110 version that I can get the back cover as service parts from? So far it seems Cingular has it as 8100, but I can't see anything on their site since one has to log in it seems...
Lars
I'm confused.. if you don't want to use the camera, then why not just not use the camera? Or do you need it at work, and work has a "no camera phones" policy?
exactly, guess I didn't make that clear enough, I'm not allowed to have a camera phone at work (and I don't want to switch devices all time).
a couple of people here..
http://forum.xda-developers.com/viewtopic.php?t=31755
..did take theirs apart, at least a bit. There's even some images - but they're broken - and a bit of description on: http://www.howardforums.com/showpost.php?p=6298030&postcount=27
Here's one of the pictures...
http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=377474
But it doesn't show much with regard to taking the wizard apart
Thanks, that helped at least so far that I know about the screws to lose and how to open it... Will have to figure about the lens etc. when I have my hands on.
Before you go butchering a new device (which might cause problems the hardware complaining it is missing something), why not just try the rear cover from he other model before you remove the camera.
Another other option would be a small bit of plastic to secure over the hole in the covering using something like Bostick All Purpose. This would be removable if required.
One more thought is to buy the non-camera one from another network and unlock as required.
Of course I will try first without removing anything... My guess though from pictures is, that the lens will protrude too much for the other cover to fit. I hope that the ccd is soldered directly to the pcb, while the lens is clipped on, that would myke it easy, and no "hardware" would be really missing. And it would be reversable as well. Have to see that when I got the device.
Believe me that I did a really good search for the 110 model, but I couldn't find it, only one was Cingular, where I would have to buy it for full price, compared to paying ~200 US$ for the subsidized one here...
Now I only need a way to get service parts from singular
Your job sucks. I am glad I don't have that problem. Eventhough I don't use the camera very much, every now and then I do take a few.
his employer may also not be satisfied with just having the cover over it (if it did fit).. as taking a picture would just be a cover-removal away ( okay, okay.. bunch of screws.. but you could leave those out and pretend there's no camera %) )
actually my job is quite cool, and I hate all those handy-cams... I have a digital SLR and if need be a small casio if I want to take pictures...
From my view the providers are responsible for the current situation, as they want to earn on those MMS messages...
I for my part just need a smartPHONE or pocketpcPHONE. And if we're really honest, those pictures taken with GSMs are mostly horrible
Most, yes... However.. S/E k750i/w800i, Nokia N9x-series, Samsung whatchamacallit... all have quite reasonable 2MP cameras, and better is coming up (with telescoping lens and all that, as can be seen on many of the very thin consumer cameras).
It's not just the providers - it's people as well.. I have a very nice DSC V-3 myself for my photography stuff, but I don't lug it with me as it's fairly big. But even if it were one of those thin cameras, I'd be lugging around both a phone -and- a camera. If I can have both in 1 device, then why not? That's the argument for a PDA with GSM as well, isn't it? Not having to carry around both a PDA and a phone ? :>
sure, true as well... of course there's always different views on that... I'm just referencing the *current* quality of the pictures, and without a optic zoom and a reasonable flash, they just don't work for me... and of course I like the all-in-one thing... though GPS would be more important to me And I alos wonder, since everything is more or less modules these days, they could just (like with the HTC 100/110 or HP 6500/6900) make models with and without camera. From observing a bit, I think the need for phones without camera is quite big in enterprise environments...
Well.. once upon a time, there was the SD card. With it came enough bus bandwidth and whatnot to create the SD I/O standard. You could buy a little camera SD I/O thing, plug it into your PDA/phone, and you had an added camera. GPS ? Ditto - GSM ? Yep. WiFi ? Absolutely. All at the same time? maybe not, but not impossible.
Problem is that you'd be stacking devices, which isn't very attractive
Of course, on the manufacturer end, you can drop features from a 'high end' model and sell it as a 'lower end' model - like the WIZA100 and WIZA110 for camera/cameraless (or the other way around). But then there's the question of it actually being available to you
I'm curious, though - if you knew that your employer doesn't allow camera phones, then why not get a PocketPC phone without the camera -other- than the Wizard?
( I assume they exist :x )
There's a few I know of. Currently I have a 9210 Nokia communicator, but I want to get away from "proprietary" systems (Windows seems to be more open in this case). The upcoming Sony-Ericsson M600 (?) seems to have the same problem. And then there's the HP 9500/9800 series, but those are a) expensive, since nearly no provider takes them in their program, and they have a 240x240 resolution, which also can make problems.
The HTC Wizard just is the perfect device for me, and obviously it even seems to exist in a version without camera
TauTau - if you're still reading, check:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/viewtopic.php?p=244134#244134
For pictures of the device taken apart. And guess what? Looks like the camera is a module you can just 'unplug' Good luck!
great info, thanks!
Related
Hi, over the last couple of weeks I have been asked by a couple of customers that I have visited to leave my XDA2 at reception, or put it in the car because it has a camera on it and they won't allow cameras, camera phones etc in the building because of security issues.
I'm running a trial for my company, which is thinking of replacing our rubbish Jornada 928's with a pda phone that actually works, but we need to have a permanant way of disabling the camera's, Orange & O2 say it cant be done easily does anyone have any ideas?
Thanks in advance
You could remove the camera software in the extended ROM image with the er2003edit tool.
Upgrade the XDA with the newly created ROM and gone is your camera.
Of course, this is a software solution.
Anyone who reads this forum and has some understanding of how things work, can get the camera back up and running in no time...
And how would you prove to a company that you visit the camera really isn't working anymore, even with the cam software removed? There's still a visible lens. If you were visiting my company, I wouldn't let you in with in, no matter if you say the cam is disabled.
Maybe you could paint the lens black :lol:
Grtz,
Jos
Thanks
Cheers Jos
I guess u are rigth about the 'proof' of disablement - I was kinda hoping - rather foolishly - that if it was possibel I could get Orange or whoever to supply a cirtificate of proof of diasablement, but I guess that won't be enough for most people - Probably have to weld a plate over the lens :lol:
But I guess this is going to become a bigger problem as time goes by & reception areas will have bins full of mobile phones, PDA's etc that people have been asked to surrender before entering - that will put insurance up :wink:
I'd be interested to hear about any other peoples experiences with problems in this area - we are looking to buy well over 200 of these things and if other people would find a no camera version uselful - perhaps we can get an official mod made?
Thanks in advance
Ross
T
Can't you just tape over it and show it has been taped up. I mean using the camera on these things make you stand out very obviously. *They'd* know you were trying to take a picture.
OR you could just lie and don't tell them about it at all.
OR get a case that completly covers the lens. Again taking it out of the case to try and get a sneaky shot is not easy.
Oh well.,
if the camera is not needen in any way (i think so) you can make the glass above the lense scratched up with a fiber stencil, so there cant be done photos anyway - that also can be demonstrated by startin the camera-app, and anybody can see, that taking photos is not possible anymore.
I am still using my old xda ebcase that covers the camera lense. If I want to take a picture I take it out. If not then I leave it in the case. Have been in a couple of places that say no pictures/no picture phones but I don't volunteer the information. I just go on about my business. So far no problems.
A while back there was a rumor that the video camera was still in the 8525 but they just covered it up with the new silver bezel - anybody care to dismantle to prove/disprove this rumor?
Why would they cover it?
Seemed silly to me to but there were rumors 3 or 4 weeks ago that's what they did. I think the basics of it was that their network wasn't up to snuff for the video so they covered the camera (being cheaper then redesign?) so people wouldn't complain about the extra camera which they couldn't use. I think it's bunk but curious - I don't recommend anybody tear apart their 8525 - I doubt it's there but if you're feeling reckless and want to destroy your new $600 toy - let me know if you find the camera!
It is possible.
chymmylt said:
Seemed silly to me to but there were rumors 3 or 4 weeks ago that's what they did. I think the basics of it was that their network wasn't up to snuff for the video so they covered the camera (being cheaper then redesign?) so people wouldn't complain about the extra camera which they couldn't use. I think it's bunk but curious - I don't recommend anybody tear apart their 8525 - I doubt it's there but if you're feeling reckless and want to destroy your new $600 toy - let me know if you find the camera!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now I'm just wondering whether some of the more expert folks here could work this one out without dismantling. The coolcamera programme can utilise the front camera as a webcam. Obviously there would be no picture if the camera is covered but I wonder what the programme will do if the camera is not present. Clearly a message saying camera not present would be handy but if it freezes or behaves strangely (some error message) that might be another bit of evidence suggesting the camera is absent. Perhaps someone with device could try using coolcamera to see what happens on front camera setting?
Just a thought
Mike
That's a great idea.
I just tried what you guys suggested with the coolcamera app and when I switched the sensor from main to front, I got a black screen. Of course this would make sense since it is covered up but I didn't get any error message.
Today while looking at the phone more closely, I noticed there is sort've a "flatness" or outline on the bezel where the front camera would be.
I'm a believer that the camera is still present on the phone...just disabled and covered up by the metal bezel on the 8525. I also agree with the fact it wouldn't make sense to redesign the phone just to remove the camera. Instead they could do it cosmetically, in this case, with the metal bezel that is on the 8525.
Assuming that the camera is still present, I'm hoping that a third party company (or HTC) can make a replacement bezel with the front camera opening.
That is amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Don't break open those 8525s just yet...
Notice that even when you completely cover the main camera lens, you can still see colors when you cycle through the special effects (sepia, cool, negative). When you switch to the front camera and cycle effects, you get nothing (the screen never changes from black). If the front camera were present, the negative effect at least would be dramatic.
-Sar
Good point Sarumiso. I just tried changing the effects and nothing changed. It could mean that the camera is just disabled, though. Won't know for sure until someone opens up their phone.
cellnut said:
Good point Sarumiso. I just tried changing the effects and nothing changed. It could mean that the camera is just disabled, though. Won't know for sure until someone opens up their phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good points being made. An error message might at least have suggested camera is not present, unfortunately no errors does not prove things one way or the other.
Mike
so im an avid 8125 guy with my 8525 on the way, will be here tomorrow... anyway, lets pretend for a moment the cam is there, then its more than likely disabled in the cingular rom... would it be possible to flash an actual tytn rom to get the front camera support, then try the testing with the software and cycling through the colors? just a thought
cellnut said:
I just tried what you guys suggested with the coolcamera app and when I switched the sensor from main to front, I got a black screen. Of course this would make sense since it is covered up but I didn't get any error message.
Today while looking at the phone more closely, I noticed there is sort've a "flatness" or outline on the bezel where the front camera would be.
I'm a believer that the camera is still present on the phone...just disabled and covered up by the metal bezel on the 8525. I also agree with the fact it wouldn't make sense to redesign the phone just to remove the camera. Instead they could do it cosmetically, in this case, with the metal bezel that is on the 8525.
Assuming that the camera is still present, I'm hoping that a third party company (or HTC) can make a replacement bezel with the front camera opening.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Or just take a dremel to it.
here is an idea... is the service manual out there? like one specifically for the 8525, it may tell whether it exists or not. or what company actually does the repairs for the 8525, maybe we contact them and find out... or if all else fails then the manual would give instructions on how to take it apart...
"...anyway, lets pretend for a moment the cam is there, then its more than likely disabled in the cingular rom... would it be possible to flash an actual tytn rom to get the front camera support, then try the testing with the software and cycling through the colors?..."
shogunmark---will you be testing this theory of yours? I would try this myself but I'm too much of a nb to even attempt changing the ROM. Have to read up on all the how to threads. =)
well, i probably will, but its gonna a little while before i can do that, i havent even gotten my 8525 yet, fedex says it will be here tomorrow... i have alot more reading to do though... i am very familiar with cooking roms for my 8125, but from what i read so far it seems like the 8525 is a different animal entirely, so with my busy life its gonna take at least a week or 2 of reading before i make the venture
I've removed the two screws from the other side of the screen. Pried open the display case and bottom of it to about 1/8" and I could see that my phone does NOT have the front facing camera. It has the place for it, but definitely no camera. Would be nice to compare the Tytn's ie/mail/led pcb with the 8525s to see how they differ.
already done: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=284384
I've created a full housing swap to include the fron camera on my 8525. Tutorial includes full instructions with pictures included. See link below
http://www.howardforums.com/showthread.php?t=1152710&page=1&pp=15
so im an avid 8125 guy with my 8525 on the way, will be here tomorrow... anyway, lets pretend for a moment the cam is there, then its more than likely disabled in the cingular rom... would it be possible to flash an actual tytn rom to get the front camera support, then try the testing with the software and cycling through the colors? just a thought
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have everything ready to do this. Camera installed and all. I have unlocked my phone to update to any rom. I'm willing to give this a shot. I just need to know if I where to get the ROm to download. Tis swap is a compete resemblance of the Japanese versionof my 8525, its the htc Z from Japan. http://www.japan.htc.com/product_htcz.htm . I dont know if there is an english versionof this rom to download. I'm ready to do this for everyone I just need direction
It's a shame that those of us that do have the front facing camera that the phone lacks a front facing flash or LED. Would be very handy otherwise those times when the urge comes for yet another self portrait and it happens to be night . . .
(We do not have 3G here in Oman.)
I have a Wizard (XDA Mini S) and O2's Trion doesn't seem to be to appealing seeing as how much it could cost me (not to mention lock me into another contract).
After poking around on eBay, I see M3100s going for 50 to 150++ and it is very tempting to get one as Kaiser seems far off. To my knowledge the M3100 has autofocus (some like the Qtek one don't?) and I also like the black body and key layout (no other reason for this specific variant).
I am just curious whether or not it's still worth going for one (if I can get it on the cheap) and what is drawing me to the hermes over the wizard (I love the keyboard and the rest of it):
- 3G
- Speed (apparently the samsung can be overclocked?)
- Better camera (Wizard's lack of macro makes it a pain to photograph chip markings)
- Jog dial
The nice to have GPS and FM radio are hard to find and the Kaiser will have a high markup (I am not looking for the latest and greatest right now as I waiting for something newer before I drop a lot of dough). So will the Hermes suit me and will an investment of around 100 pounds be a sound one (is it too much and also seeing as I can unlock it myself...I should have no problems right?)
One thing bugging me is the screen alignment issue but if it's a recent one I doubt it should be there and warranty for stuff off eBay (how do I deal with this?)?
Well worth it
The alignment issue is not persistent in all devices, I've just had my Vario II replaced and there is not sign of it so far (touch wood).
When the issue was there it was bareable...
Also worth baring in mind that the Vario II/ 3100 is still less than 12 months on the market, so it would be under manufacturers warranty = just walk in the shop and let them sort it out....
Personally It's a cracking unit, and if you can get a good deal off e-bay it'll last you a long time.
Personally I wish I'd found this forum sooner as I've been a long time smartphone/ pocket PC owner, there are loads of excellent resources here mate.
UPDATE:
MDA Vario II @ 400MHz (no over-clocking for me thx)
WM6-Professional (CE OS 5.2.968 (Build 17736.0.2.0)
ROM 3.23.0.2
Radio 1.40.30.00
HERM300
I have been looking around a fair bit but I'm a little lost why some eBay sellers say the Vodafone V1605 doesn't do 3G sims. I know it supposedly needs a firmware update to get HSDPA but except that is there any issue with the 3G uSIM?
Has the Hermes really been on the market for under 12 months? It feels like I've seen it around for ages. The one thing pushing me towards the M3100 is the color (really don't want another siliver one) as I said but I can't seem to find a detailed list of differences between the various models (checked wiki and there's no mention of the 3G thing above or for that matter differences in camera if at all).
Funny thing is, I'm normally the type to patiently wait and then buy something but after going on eBay, that patience has vanished...also the numerous v1605 units going on the cheap are pretty tempting. I will also probably end up buying a black silicone case as well so I'm not too sure if the color will be a major issue.
There are no real differences between any of the variants. The camera is the same, the processor is the same, etc etc.
Yes the 3100 is the best looking one. I would go for it.
Thanks for the heads up but the M3100s seem fairly pricey (at least most start high...) maybe I'll strike a deal somewhere...some how. Oh well, keep looking...44 items being watched on eBay
AsGF2MX said:
To my knowledge the M3100 has autofocus (some like the Qtek one don't?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No autofocus on either, afaik. It does have the lens slider to switch to macro though.
The camera is "okay". I recently took it on a skiing holiday where it got completely confused with the white balance and all the pictures came up with a very strong blue tint.
In general use, apart from exposure issues when there is high contrast and the flash being near-useless (I'm sure it's mistimed with the exposure), it takes a reasonable picture. Certainly no substitute for a dedicated camera though, imo.
Just got one
Hey i recently[09/04/07] got an Orange SPV M3100 + 2GB card + BT gps + extra screeen protector + cradle + extra battery for 240 quid (pounds sterling) including first class next day shipping off Ebay UK. Unfournately i recieved a unit with the screen allingnment issue and was totally unware about it being a common problem till i read you post... anyways still love the device and if your in a area that recieves HSPDA coverage its well worth it!
Yes black does feel very sleek, compared to my silver vario !
UPDATE [ i am reading the wiki and working on my options ]
arghness said:
No autofocus on either, afaik. It does have the lens slider to switch to macro though.
The camera is "okay". I recently took it on a skiing holiday where it got completely confused with the white balance and all the pictures came up with a very strong blue tint.
In general use, apart from exposure issues when there is high contrast and the flash being near-useless (I'm sure it's mistimed with the exposure), it takes a reasonable picture. Certainly no substitute for a dedicated camera though, imo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Aww man, the autofocus thing would be handy but well, macro shots are little important to me and as for dedicated camera, I don't have one on me right now but looking at what some people have taken, I doubt I'll be complaining about it for now. If it beats my wizard, I'm sold.
stryker1355 said:
Hey i recently[09/04/07] got an Orange SPV M3100 + 2GB card + BT gps + extra screeen protector + cradle + extra battery for 240 quid (pounds sterling) including first class next day shipping off Ebay UK. Unfournately i recieved a unit with the screen allingnment issue and was totally unware about it being a common problem till i read you post... anyways still love the device and if your in a area that recieves HSPDA coverage its well worth it!
Yes black does feel very sleek, compared to my silver vario !
UPDATE [ i am reading the wiki and working on my options ]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well some of the sellers don't reveal the serials...at least I've had no luck and mind you, I'm trying to score one for under 100 - because I can't just spend and spend (have one wizard housing and silicone case on the way). Based on the fact that all these M3100s/V1605 are supposed to be under warranty, a walk into Orange/Vodafone should resolve such issues, However one thing I am hesitant about is how do I register the phone under my name once I acquire it?
Also does the GPS in the radio chip stand any chance of working? I've seen the the engineering thread and based on the pin setup (the fact that pins are tied to ground and such to disable the GPS portion) of the hermes, it doesn't sound practical but on the other hand I've seen one or two odd posts that it is only a crippled antenna.
Buy it already!
AsGF2MX said:
Also does the GPS in the radio chip stand any chance of working? I've seen the the engineering thread and based on the pin setup (the fact that pins are tied to ground and such to disable the GPS portion) of the hermes, it doesn't sound practical but on the other hand I've seen one or two odd posts that it is only a crippled antenna.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got my v1605 for 175 quids, sim-free.
I wouldn't bother too much about the GPS hype, it isn't worth the trouble.. No screen alignment issues for me. Used the stock ROM for a couple of weeks and upgraded to numerous roms since.
Currently on Black v2.0 (WM6) and lovin' it. Yes, the TyTn is indeed a wise choice. I live in an area with full HSDPA coverage and I have since disconnected my ASDL broadband service (HSDPA seems to be wayyyyy faster).
I have push e-mail and other pop-access accounts. This device is indispensable for me as I travel a whole lot.
Cheers from Frankfurt.
175 from where? I know my price point maybe a little low but since it's eBay, I suppoe there's a chance but I do see some of them who have one bidder raise the price 3 times or more in a row (i.e from 50 pounds to 150) and now that bothers me.
AsGF2MX said:
Well some of the sellers don't reveal the serials...at least I've had no luck and mind you, I'm trying to score one for under 100 - because I can't just spend and spend (have one wizard housing and silicone case on the way). Based on the fact that all these M3100s/V1605 are supposed to be under warranty, a walk into Orange/Vodafone should resolve such issues, However one thing I am hesitant about is how do I register the phone under my name once I acquire it?
Hey with regards to the warranty issue, i am gona have a go at it (since i am experiencing the sreen alightment issue). I will message my ebay seller and ask him if he can spare me the original reciept so i can possibly make a warranty claim at a orange shop, dont know if its gona work though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now this is an issue, how does one register a change of ownership of the handset? Well I am looking forward to you updating this thread with what info you get and also what did Orange say?
no reciept
AsGF2MX said:
Now this is an issue, how does one register a change of ownership of the handset? Well I am looking forward to you updating this thread with what info you get and also what did Orange say?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry the ebay seller wasnt kind enough to send me the receipt or he may have "Lost" it. Did follow the steps of loosening screws and the screen alignment issue is much better now
Why dont they make a flash tool that plugs into your micro usb port or replaces the battery cover, so we can finally take pictures with a flash?
I dont believe this would be too hard..would it?
Using flash takes away all shades and your pictures will look like 2D drawings. Applies to any camera off course
himalayasplaya said:
I dont believe this would be too hard..would it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It would, as the USB port can't give any power.
Just get yourself a keychain flashlight... or even better, a camera.
darfri said:
Using flash takes away all shades and your pictures will look like 2D drawings. Applies to any camera off course
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Uhhhhhhhhhhhh?
darfri said:
Using flash takes away all shades and your pictures will look like 2D drawings. Applies to any camera off course
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is the biggest crock of S*** I've heard in a while. I guess all of those professional photographers who use flashes are wrong, huh?
bluedragon1971 said:
That is the biggest crock of S*** I've heard in a while. I guess all of those professional photographers who use flashes are wrong, huh?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which is better, a less than ideal photo (and I'm not a photographer so cant confirm the effects) or a far to dark/totally black photo?
I know NOTHING of programing these phones, but from a mechanical stand point, I'm not too bad. Is there anyway to trigger something out the USB port when the camera is ready to pop? Something so that the light doesn't have to be on constantly, but can come on only when the camera is ready to snap, like a standard digital camera works? I can probably fab up a back cover with a flash built into it...
Why is this an issue? I fail to see any correlation at all between the equipment used by a professional photographer, and the convenience of a simple 3MP snapshot camera included in your phone. You were given a suggestion that addressed your problem and apparently you were quite upset by it. So, my turn... This IS NOT a 10 - 12 MP Canon, Nikon or Leica! Its to snap a quick shot of something for later reference - an event, a schedule, a location, a photographic note, if you will. The camera in your phone is not the primary device or function of your phone - its an 'added function' that can be effectively used as intended, or complained about by those that can't fully appreciate its capabilities!
Oh, and those professional cameras listed above don't make or receive phone calls, don't have e-mail or voicemail capabilities, don't play my mp3s or videos, can't use wifi to browse the internet or for online banking or for etc., store GBs of data other than pics & video, function as a gps unit, open or edit my Office docs, use text messaging, or play a myriad of games! And yet they cost from $699 to $999 apiece! How do those manufacturers' sleep at night? And you won't find a forum for support anything near as intense and complete as the XDA-Developer's Forum - all for what you can afford to donate!
Now I don't mean to preach, so here's examples: instead of a daily to-do or task list, I can take a quick series of photos to remind me! Pix of ATM card to remind me to go to the bank, of a loaf of bread or carton of milk to remind me to hit the grocery store, of the Suburban's front end to call for an appointment to get the front-end aligned, of the dog to remember his vet appointment, and of a document I need to complete by end-of-business! Those pix are worth a thousand words, and the time it would take to write detailed notes to myself! Then simply delete photos as tasks are completed! Too cool! At the store over lunch and see a new Sony LCD HDTV you like? Take a photo of it, along with the pertinent sales tag info, and research it later at home on the internet! Meet someone you haven't seen in a while? Take a photo to remind yourself to tell the wife that night, with that picture to enhance your tale! Need to match paint for a room in the house with the colors of the furnishings or rugs? Take a series of pictures with you to the hardware store. Take a photo of a suspicious vehicle 'just in case'? An accident, a surprise event, a crime or disaster? You at least have the camera in your phone - its way better than no camera at all. For your 'Keepsake Memories' get a decent camera, complete with a flash!
Hope this helps put things in perspective for you.
BTW, this was a rant - not a discussion or an argument, so keep your opinions to yourself. I've said what I wanted to say!
BigDad_1
When I started this thread I did not intend it to go out of control. I was just wondering if anyone knew where to get one or how to make one.
This is more along the lines of what I was looking for, except for the Kaiser instead of the iPhone: http://www.techeblog.com/index.php/tech-gadget/snaptureflash-gives-iphone-makeshift-camera-flash
I think a new back cover that has a built in flash would be awesome. If someone makes one, and it works, I'll certainly buy one.
I think about how much I miss my flash on my old phone all the time. That was a huge blunder leaving it off the Kaiser. Even if you never use a flash on your pictures, it was a handy flashlight. But it was certainly nice to have a flash for pictures too.
himalayasplaya said:
When I started this thread I did not intend it to go out of control. I was just wondering if anyone knew where to get one or how to make one.
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Don't worry, the thread isn't 'out of control' you just need to take heed of what kilrah has already posted. The USB port on the Kaiser isn't a host port so it doesn't (and cannot be made to) behave like an ordinary USB port on your PC (well not without some serious electronic redesign work far beyond what we as non phone designer sorts could come up with). Other options must be investigated.
Was the USB comment directed at me? I was just wondering if there was a way to trigger the flash 'remotely'.
as for some sort of add on flash, my dad has made several LED units, self contained, that fit in a 3/4 inch copper pipe cap. Mostly made of brass, it includes a switch and is heavy. He used it as a night lite for something like 7 days str8 on a single 2032 battery. Granted, it is not sleak, but it was self contained.
The main problem with a 'flash' is that the camera app wouldn't be able to process the picture any faster (focus on it and make adjustments for light) before snapping it because the camera app wouldn't know that a flash would be coming soon to compensate for a flash... unless we have a camera programer in our midsts? Or, can a camera app be ported from a flash enabled device, or do the OEM flashes stay on as long as a flash is called for, so there is no 'compensation' per se?
I am getting ready to purchase a TyTN II parts phone, I'll have to see what I can do with it. I've got a few ideas up my sleave. Does anyone have what the Proprietary USB B port pin out is, both sides of the tongue?
if anyone makes this invention i will gladly buy it from them ASAP
Heh, I've started working on it... at this point, I'm not working on making it interface with the camera, it will have an external switch and be something you turn on when you want it, and could also be used as a flashlight to light your way in the dark...
I am also toying with having it light up when ever the camera is in use, but I need to find a dead kaiser (the phone I own, so the phone I'm developing for) in order to work on some sort of interface for automatic operation...
Anybody got a Kaiser with a crushed screen and case that I could tinker with? *grins*
SaltyDawg said:
I think a new back cover that has a built in flash would be awesome. If someone makes one, and it works, I'll certainly buy one.
I think about how much I miss my flash on my old phone all the time. That was a huge blunder leaving it off the Kaiser. Even if you never use a flash on your pictures, it was a handy flashlight. But it was certainly nice to have a flash for pictures too.
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/agree
I used the flash on my S710 as NIGHT LIGHT all of the time. I think an external flash able to slide in an touch the battery contacts would be cool. Een if you had to turn on the light by a little switch built into the back cover. 5V should be MORE than enough power to light up maybe 3-5 small LED lights. Even if they werent connected to the cam directly, im sure it would help a lot in low light situations. Just my 2 cents I like this idea
I am in the process of comunicating with LED suppliers, and will begin mocking something up here in the coming weeks... I'll keep you posted.
A couple of questions for potential users... What is better, to make a cradle to slip the phone into, to make the components fit completely with in the format of the phone now, or to make the phone slightly larger (like an extended battery pack)?
The advantage of a craddle is that it can be put on and removed fairly quickly... Downside is that it would be hardest for me to make... (grins)
The advantage of the lights fitting within the format of the phone now is that you don't have to have something extra, or an extra large phone, to carry around. Perimatly mounted, and ready to go at all times... the down side is reduced performance because of no extra batteries, and possibly fewer LEDs, and the fact that the owner of the phone would possibly have the hardest time installing it.
The advantage of an extended battery type back cover is that you can get extended battery usage (by use of separate batteries for the LEDs), and nice balance between easy on/easy off and size... the downside is that the phone would be slightly larger, and you would have to carry the extra back cover if you didn't always want the phone bigger, but wanted the option for a flash.
The cradle idea would be the most expensive by far, and quite probably out of my reach at this time.
The extended back and original size formate are going to be fairly close in price I have the feeling.
The extended back will probably be the easiest to build, but personally, I'd rather not use that style.
So, what do _YOU_ think?
I think Mag light and all problems solved
Seems alot to do for a camera that isn't very good anyway, but good enough for snapshots.............. After all it's not an SLR..............
The best one, in my opinion, would be an entirely new battery cover that had LED lights mounted in it, and was not any bigger than the original battery cover.
Something that is permanently mounted, and basically a part of the phone, and not making the phone any bigger (it's already a brick). Maybe a little larger than the regular battery cover, but not a lot. Hopefully not enough to notice. I'm not worried about battery life as this would only get used for a few minutes every day (at the most).
I don't know if that is even possible, but if it is, I'll take 4 of them.
Nobody ever uses an external GPS receiver, so maybe the stuff could go in right there?
stylez said:
I think Mag light and all problems solved
Seems alot to do for a camera that isn't very good anyway, but good enough for snapshots.............. After all it's not an SLR..............
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Yes, a maglite would work... but I take many photos with my camera when I can't put both hands in position to illuminate the subject and hit the shutter... I go to the car salvage yard alot, and if I can't see a part good enough from my vantage point, I'll hold my phone up and snap a picture from there to see if it is worth digging for, for example.
As for it not being an SLR, MOST digitial cameras are NOT slr... and MOST people do not shell out tons of money for an SLR. If you don't like the camera phone, that's fine... you can carry a second item. For the rest of us, we'd like to improve on a decent useable camera, so we will, Thank you.
SaltyDawg said:
The best one, in my opinion, would be an entirely new battery cover that had LED lights mounted in it, and was not any bigger than the original battery cover.
Something that is permanently mounted, and basically a part of the phone, and not making the phone any bigger (it's already a brick). Maybe a little larger than the regular battery cover, but not a lot. Hopefully not enough to notice. I'm not worried about battery life as this would only get used for a few minutes every day (at the most).
I don't know if that is even possible, but if it is, I'll take 4 of them.
Nobody ever uses an external GPS receiver, so maybe the stuff could go in right there?
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Hehehe, my wife never uses her GPS at all, but I use an antenna adapter from Wilson Electronics along with a mini whip antenna with a magnetic mount... it go from 1-2 bars on a bad day (with TomTom Navigator 6), to a full count of 5 bars... unplug the antenna, and it goes back down, plug it back in, and it bounces back up...
I've looked into using that area, but it really doesn't afford much in the way of space, and I'm not too keen on modifying the original fabric of the phone itself, it just doesn't seem 'right' to me.
Your vote has been tallied.
Hi,
a problem that many might have:
I need a camera free device to go to work with.
how hard is it to dismantle the camera? do I need a full open heart surgery?
or is it almost plug and play?
Eysham
You're better off taking off the battery cover and putting electrical tape over the camera, then putting the battery cover back on. That way you should be able to slide by. I read that the camera doesn't come off... you'd have to break it off, I guess.
i dont need the N1 bad enough to risk getting shamefully fired...
if security demands no camera i need to be with no camera. no playing around sliding with duck tape...
where did you read about the camera not beeing detachable? do you remember?
eysham
eysham said:
i dont need the N1 bad enough to risk getting shamefully fired...
if security demands no camera i need to be with no camera. no playing around sliding with duck tape...
where did you read about the camera not beeing detachable? do you remember?
eysham
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I believe it was in the Engadget hands on review... someone asked in the comments.
thanks, but couldn't find it...
Why not just get a cheapo phone with no camera for work, and when your off work just switch the sim card to the N1.
same reason I dont want to drive a cheapo beatup 1977 VW beetle to work and save my new R8 Audi (I wish...) to weekends...
and all just because there is a speed limit in the work place's internal parking lot...
eysham
It must be almost impossible to have a camera free phone these days. 5 years ago I worked for a company where cameras were banned (car industry, spy photos of future models are common but rather unhelpful to the companies) but it was when cameras were only just being added to phones.
If I was still there now I have no idea what phone I would have!
No phones that have cameras have "removable cameras". Some may have cameras you can remove, but you will have to at least partially dismantle your phone and actually cut out (or de-solder) a working component to do so. If you do that good luck getting any kind of replacement if it goes wrong.
The no cameras thing is tough with phones. I had a job a while back like that. It was tough to find a phone that didn't have a camera back then. We had to go with Blackberrys as they were about the only option. As for sneaking around with it. That wasn't an option the guys that were checking had guns and the ability to lock you away for a very long time for breaking the rules. I would have been lucky to only get fired.
there must be a way to detach it though...
eysham said:
there must be a way to detach it though...
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The camera is not detachable because of the AF mechanism, it's surrounded by a metal casing that keeps the whole mechanism and sensor in place. Sure, you can remove it, but you won't be able to put it back.
You have 2 options
1. Leave the phone in the car ( should be safe in your compaies car park)
2. Get a small pin and drive it thourgh the lens, which will make the camera useless, and your employer can check if they wish.
Where do you work?
I'm thinking, a Cash center, at some air port, or some electronics company or a cleaner at MI5/6 / CIA
I think this link will confirm that there will be no way to remove it. The only option would be to destroy it.
http://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/Nexus-One/1654/2
I will asume there is a cord which connected the camera to the mainboard.
in most of the case, the camera is just a modul. you can remove it if you dissemble the device.
Hide the phone up your arse.
How?
If you remove the camera and get your phoe "legalized" at work, how easy would it be for you to bring a new phone with camera two weeks later? Will they check it each time?
If they dont, some security...
great!! thanks for the info....
now have to decide...
Eysham
Put an iPod Touch cover on it so they can't see it...
THIS LINK WILL HELP YOU
http://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/Nexus-One/1654/1