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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.
I cant beleive the trinity will not have a keyboard. This still leaves on my quest to find the perfect device. Instead of waiting for HTC i decided to do some looking around. I found this gps receiver. http://www.pocketgpsworld.com/holux-gr240.php . I was wondering if it would be possible to input this inside the tytns casing. Its been a while since my electrical courses but i think the logic would handle the power issue if we got rid of the battery and just piggybacked it off the tytns board.It even has a slider switch so it would be easy to input it somehwere out of the housing. has anyone ever opened up a tytn and seen if theres any space to fit the gps anteena and the baord. any comments?
benfica88 said:
I cant beleive the trinity will not have a keyboard. This still leaves on my quest to find the perfect device. Instead of waiting for HTC i decided to do some looking around. I found this gps receiver. http://www.pocketgpsworld.com/holux-gr240.php . I was wondering if it would be possible to input this inside the tytns casing. Its been a while since my electrical courses but i think the logic would handle the power issue if we got rid of the battery and just piggybacked it off the tytns board.It even has a slider switch so it would be easy to input it somehwere out of the housing. has anyone ever opened up a tytn and seen if theres any space to fit the gps anteena and the baord. any comments?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi, not opend my tytn yet...
but i dont think theres any space free...
not so much like the platine and the cabels and the antenne needs...
maybe when there is an big accupack available like von the vpa compact 2 with a bigger accucover then you have space...
I was looking at the 8525, it's rumored to have the front camera removed, maybe some space opened up there...
Guys, come on!
Some of the best new GPS receivers are TINY!
I've got a GlobalSat BT359, and you could velcro attach it to the back of your TyTN. It wouldn't look any bigger than a phone with an extended battery. BTW, I didn't choose the BT359 for size (rather for performance). I'll bet you can find smaller still...
goestoeleven said:
Guys, come on!
Some of the best new GPS receivers are TINY!
I've got a GlobalSat BT359, and you could velcro attach it to the back of your TyTN. It wouldn't look any bigger than a phone with an extended battery. BTW, I didn't choose the BT359 for size (rather for performance). I'll bet you can find smaller still...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya, but I don't want to velcro it there. I want my phone to still fit in my leather holster. If we can get it onto the board you also don't have to worry about charging to devices as the gps will piggyback power off of the tytn.
Good luck with that!
goestoeleven said:
Good luck with that!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've done a lot harder projects than this!
Well, in case anyone is still paying attention to this, ive gotten one step closer to maybe getting this to work. I ordered a gpslim 240 and checked out it guts. Ive succesfully got it to run off a k-jam battery. My concerns were the voltage being 3.7 to 3.3 on the gps. Everything works out fine and the logic on the board seems to handle evrything else. The only problem so far is stuffing it into the case. i opened up my k-jam case and there seems to be some room in there,but im waiting for the 8525 to test. I tried to get it in my buddys 6700 but there is no room in there at all. Hopefully the tytn is more like the k-jam and some space is availble. Hopefully all said and done with removing the stock gps battery and stuffing it into the tytn board, there will be only one device to carry and charge.
Remember to take pictures while you are doing all this!
It will make me cringe to see a tytn pulled apart like this but I see want to see it
yup,plan on taking lots.just need cingular release the 8525 already! i would feel more comfortable doing this with insurance.
you are joking about the insurance aren't you? there is no way an insurance company would ever pay out if you broke your phone whilst trying to mod it. Unless of course you're thinking of "losing" the phone should it break.
herman3101 said:
you are joking about the insurance aren't you? there is no way an insurance company would ever pay out if you broke your phone whilst trying to mod it. Unless of course you're thinking of "losing" the phone should it break.
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Click to collapse
exactly... ive never had insurance before, but apperently this is one of the best benefits of the program that im mising out on.
8525 Camera
The 8525 has the front camera covered up by the faceplate -- the camera itself is still there, just hidden. They also disable it in their ROM...
(At least that's the case when it comes to the 8525 I saw last week -- we stuck a pocketknife blade under the adhesive metallic faceplate and peeled it up a little)
So.. you're not gaining any extra space under there for a GPS receiver.
benfica88 said:
exactly... ive never had insurance before, but apperently this is one of the best benefits of the program that im mising out on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, Cingular doesn't offer insurance on PDA phones. You'd have to go with a third party company like SafeWare or your homeowners/renters insurance.
Wow, this would be very cool indeed!
I guess with the 8525, if the front camera is disabled anyway, you could just remove it yourself and free up some space for the gps unit. I own a vario II with the front cam enabled, but if i could replace it for a GPS i'll readily do it.
Good luck & keep us posted!
Breaking news on GPS capabilities: The TyTN is verified to have a Qualcomm MSM6275 radio chip. Here's a quote from Dr. Sanjay K. Jha, executive vice president and president of QUALCOMM CDMA Technologies with regards to the MSM6275:
...This integrated solution also includes support for QUALCOMM's gpsOne(R) position location technology....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is gpsOne? Here:
http://www.cdmatech.com/products/gpsone.jsp
Now for the kicker. The MSM6275 is one of the most advanced GPS enabled radio chips that Qualcomm makes. It has fast satellite acquisition, standalone mode and enhanced navigation support built in. Here's the datasheet describing this:
http://www.cdmatech.com/products/gpsone.jsp
The relevant table is on the last page.
jmat said:
The 8525 has the front camera covered up by the faceplate -- the camera itself is still there, just hidden. They also disable it in their ROM...
(At least that's the case when it comes to the 8525 I saw last week -- we stuck a pocketknife blade under the adhesive metallic faceplate and peeled it up a little)
So.. you're not gaining any extra space under there for a GPS receiver.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hmm...do you think this could only be pre-production models? I could always remove the camera, seems it would be a while before its widespread over here
Unfortunately, Cingular doesn't offer insurance on PDA phones. You'd have to go with a third party company like SafeWare or your homeowners/renters insurance.
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Click to collapse
Crap, ill juts have to be more careful!
And in terms of the qualcomm chip, from what ive seen there no antenna in the tytn. So is this traditonal gps,agps, or something new?
@benfica88: see the latest comments in this thread, it is being discussed / researched over here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=279151
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've posted this on GENERAL but I think it makes more sense here.
I have a second BlueAngel which I'm selling:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250190007066
I also have spare parts, PM me for more info.
Thanks!
Wow, how did you manage to put a camera on SX66?
Wouldn't mind to put one on mine too.
simple. order a camera for 9090, open teh pda, plug the camera in teh place, and order one dirrefent back cover, with the camera hole for the lens.
SandStorm said:
simple. order a camera for 9090, open teh pda, plug the camera in teh place, and order one dirrefent back cover, with the camera hole for the lens.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What he said
SandStorm said:
simple. order a camera for 9090, open teh pda, plug the camera in teh place, and order one dirrefent back cover, with the camera hole for the lens.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? It's that easy? No soldering? So what about exchanging it for that 1.3 Megapixel model? I'd even consider buying a second BA just to try it ...
(I remember there was a thread about that here a few months ago ... I just tried to search for it but the forum's search function seems to be broken)
But probably, when you say "plug it in place", you are talking about a daugthercard module that is BA-specific?
Typing 'qtek 9090 camera' yields no result on ebay.
Is there some other camera either better or more powerful but compatible camera available?
I tried the 1.3mp but the connectors don't match.
So... anyone interested on the BA I'm selling?
LGSilva said:
I tried the 1.3mp but the connectors don't match.
So... anyone interested on the BA I'm selling?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am looking for a motherboard or an entire unit for parts, to include a usable motherboard. Let me know what you want and if we can use paypal.
Thanks,
[email protected]
Camera, Camera, whos got the Camera?
I have several Camera units for the SX-66 available. Each comes with the torx driver required, the board standoff and the camera unit. Let me know if your interested. The sale would need to be done through paypal.
LuciousNipps said:
I have several Camera units for the SX-66 available. Each comes with the torx driver required, the board standoff and the camera unit. Let me know if your interested. The sale would need to be done through paypal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would be interested if the price is right. Do you also have the back case cover with the hole in it for the lens? Also, how do I know that my SX66 is compatible with this camera? I have no problems opening it up to check part #'s, but I don't want to buy if it can't connect.
Adding Camera modules to SX66
I've done this mod to two units with parts from the cheaper CDMA Blue Angels.
On one rebuild, I used the back plate from the CDMA phone as it had the camera lens hole, and just had to cut out an opening for the sim card. I didn't really bother making the cut very pretty, as you can't see the mod when the battery is in place.
On the second one, I drilled a 1/8th inch hole the back of the original SX66 cover, Location for the hole being the only tricky part.
Added bonus to this second aproach,, twice I have taken it to shows where cameras were strickly prohibited, and security personal inspected my phone, and let me into the venues.
Camera modules are a snap to install, but be aware the camera's flash module is not supported on the SX66 motherboard (someone correct me if I am wrong)
When shopping or scrounging for parts, don't overlook the the poor, retarded CDMA's. They just want to be loved, too.
It's Camera time!
Moti; all,
These units are compatable with, and designed to fit the connector and ribbon layout for, the Siemans SX66 model and the below listed as well.
Dopod 700
Verizon XV6600
O2 Xda IIs
Qtek 9090
T-Mobile MDA III
i-Mate PDA2k
Orange SPV M2000
Sprint PPC-6601 PPC-6600
If you are replaceing a camera on one of those listed above remember that these units are the camera only and have no flash module. For the SX66 that is what you want as the board makes no provision for flash at all.
I do have some flash capable units from the PPC6600 available for anyone who needs those, let me know.
The eBay item for these is 170218372271. There are 3 available on that item, but if you needed more we can work that out off auction. Paypal is a must though, sorry. The item comes with general instructions, a torx, and the template for the camera hole placement.
I also have complete upgraded SX66 units available (170216839140), I usually post only one at a time on eBay as they sell pretty well here at home!
Moti, as far as finding the elusive GSM prepped rear cover with camera hole, I gave up on that early in the SX66 camera upgrade project. It is much simpler for me to create the camera hole myself using a heated philips driver of the right diameter for the lens exposure.
I developed a template that allows me to tape it on and make the starter hole, then run the heated driver through, making a perfect opening. A picture of the result is shown in the eBay item 170216839140, and below, which shows how well this method works and looks.
Lucious
I am thinking of giving my Tilt, with camera, to a friend when I upgrade.
His work doesn't allow camera phones so I need a battery cover for the non camera model to cover the camera.
Does anyone have one for sale or know where to buy one?
Thanks
You might have trouble finding those--the non camera phones are rare enough, let alone extra backplates. You could always cut out/patch/tape over the camera area, although that would not look too attractive I have an extra regular one, but no plain one, sorry
Thanks for the reply.
My friend found a used no camera model (8900).
The only problem is that it came with the normal camera back cover so it still looks like it has a camera.