Custom USB/Firewire Mounting

house98 · 12-31-2007, 03:37 PM

I decided NOT to put this in fabrication, as I'm not looking for 'that' customized of a solution, but one that allows me to mount a USB and/or Firewire (Female) into my ashtray so I can get that 'on-the-go' type of file-sharing, ipod-connecting, whatever without having to go to the trunk.

The only problem is I've spent several hours on several different occasions trying to find a solution that allows me to simply cut-out (drill) a precise hole and 'plug' in an adapter to give it that flush-mount feeling while still looking natual and professional.

I have an '02 325Ci and I think this would be a great addition to my CarPC -- having it mounted in the ash-tray.

The problem is I can't seem to find what I want -- has anyone done this, or know what keywords I should be using to find such items?

I've searched for:

USB, Firewire, Resessed, Flush Mount, Panel Mount, DIY, Housing, Mounting

I'm at the point now where I think it may just be simpler to litterally do this from scratch -- buying the raw USB/Firewire hardware, running wire, saudering, etc... but I just feel that there has to be something that can 'click' into place.

I would prefer the item be a Femail connector, with a standard male tail on it so I can plug it (them) into a hub behind my monitor, get it's power and be done. But something tells me I'm going to have to run it back to an internal motherboard attachment...

Am I alone here?

Curiosity · 12-31-2007, 04:41 PM

I've seen a bunch of threads here. I think frontx was mentioned a few times.
Here's another one: http://www.datapro.net/products/usb-...all-plate.html
You can always chop up the plates and paint.

house98 · 12-31-2007, 06:32 PM

I've traveled all over that site and for some (stupid/idiotic) reason I didn't find that particular one -- or if I did, I dismissed it because of the 'screws'...

Either way, that should workd, provided I have a thin mount, and possibly super-glue it to the back. :-)

Thanks for the heads up. And, if someone else knows of something more specific to a 'plug-in' option as I mentioned, please feel free.

Thanks again Curiosity.

Strgazr · 01-01-2008, 02:56 PM

You might also look at Frontx as mentioned above. I ordered some of their parts to do the same thing in my glovebox. Looks very stock. http://www.frontx.com