i3 power socket destroyed

NoLCD · Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 12:59 pm Post subject: i3 power socket destroyed

Unfortunately I have sent my i3 flying whilst getting out of the car and catching the power lead (don't ask). The i3 bounced across the car park and appeared to be unscathed but in fact the wrench has pulled the power socket apart. I am about to email Garmin with possibility of repair or parts supply.
Anyone had experience of this or Garmin support? Reading other posts it may be cheaper to buy new. The unit still works unbelievably on batteries but obviously no way of updating any more.

Thanks

gilesme · Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 1:13 pm Post subject:

As the connector is a USB port - perhaps a local PC shop could have a look and see if they could fix it ?

NoLCD · Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 1:29 pm Post subject:

Good thought - I am waiting to see what Garmin can offer and if it is too expensive I will then open up the unit and see what can be done. I assume that the socket is generic and could be replaced ok. Thanks

NoLCD · Posted: Thu Jan 26, 2006 2:08 pm Post subject:

Update, couldn't wait - have had the lid off and the socket is distorted and ripped from solder. If I can get a bit small enough I should be able to install new one.
Question

Does anyone know where I can get a pcb mounted USB (mini?) socket - can't anyhting suitable on Maplin. Question

Thanks

BTW I see no reason why an inline socket for the audio couldn't be installed for an external speaker (cut off internal one when plugged in).

Ash10 · Pocket GPS Verifier Joined: Feb 19, 2005 Posts: 478

Your best bet is probably someone like www.digikey.com - although it won't be cheap, especially with their minimum order charges.

If you can find the manufacturer and part number, it might be worthwhile calling one of the manufacturer's UK distributors to see if you can blag a couple of samples.

Darren · Posted: Thu Jan 26, 2006 2:44 pm Post subject:

Garmin's support is pretty good generally, I'd give them the opportunity to assist before you try yourself.
_________________
Darren Griffin

NoLCD · Posted: Thu Jan 26, 2006 2:48 pm Post subject:

Thanks for both replies. Will give Garmin a go and chase up connector (although it will be a very delicate job to replace).

attic · Occasional Visitor Joined: Sep 08, 2005 Posts: 30

If you have the USB (or any USB) connector, you can hard wire it and remove the risk of catching the trainling lead again...

Find a 12v lead powered on the ignition (like the radio). Splice a wire on that to a 12v to 5v stepper. This is important - 12V will blow up the i3! You can get the stepper from www.carnetix.com

Connect the 5V output from the stepper to the USB supply (usually the red wire) and the 0v to the black wire.

Runn the cable behind the trim up to your windscreen (usually you can push it behind the trim OK).

Sorted !

didhams · Occasional Visitor Joined: Jan 30, 2006 Posts: 3

The Streetpilot i3 uses the same USB-style connector as an Orange phone, the SPV500 or SPV550. Orange have a sale on their car charger cables right now; at only £5 I believe its 25% of the Garmin equivalent. I've bought and tested the cable successfully. Both units connect to PC's via the same connector, which delivers 5V as part of the USB specification, so there should be little hazard.

NoLCD · Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 11:31 pm Post subject:

Update... I sourced a new connector (RS) and fitted it ok (very thin soldering iron and a magnifiying glass). Result is that I can power up as normal but alas one of the USB data lines had its copper track ripped from the board so unable to solder solder pin 3 of the connector to anything (power is on 1 and 5). So partial success, stuck with Dec camera database! My cigarette lead is ok after some TLC.

BTW the way borrowed a T*m T*m One for the last day and found it so cumbersome!

Thanks for the advice!

NoLCD · Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 3:28 pm Post subject:

Fixed it! Re-routed the USB data satisfactorily.

Morale of the story is - the i3 is fairly rugged but keep your cigarette lead neatly stowed away from your feet.

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