Revived my beloved iPod Classic Gen5 30GB with a 64GB SD Card
Revived my beloved iPod Classic Gen5 30GB with a 64GB SD Card
In the last years I read already a few times about the iPod now being super upgradable to an SSD or micro SD nearly as big as you want.
Source: https://hackaday.com/2022/02/16/classic-ipods-are-super-upgradeable-in-2022/
So I looked up the parts already a while ago on Amazon, but they were pretty expensive, so I decided to wait or don’t do it. But a few weeks ago I saw one part being available on AliExpress, so I instantly looked up the other parts and ordered (round about 30€). See below for part links (just for example). Last week all parts arrived and I started my project and put everything together. If you also want to do that, here is a link on how to dis-/assemble the iPod:
As I wanted to minimize the risk for shorts and loose parts inside, I 3D-printed two thin layers of TPU to place between adapter and backplate and between adapter and board.
I then assembled everything (without closing the case!) and restored the iPod using my old MacBook (2013 - running macOS BigSur). I restored the partition in finder and then restored the iPod with Apple Music. Tried with windows first, but couldn’t get it to work. Works like a new one now! Definitely recommend if you have one laying around.
Ask me if you have any questions :)
The printable case I made is available for free here:
https://www.printables.com/de/model/554008-ipod-classic-5g-30gb-case-with-hexagon-back
Parts:
CF to microSD Adapter:
CF Upgrade Card:
Shell replacement (optional):
Edit/Update:
I made a dock for it, that works with the charging/sync cable and fits my case.
Here are the print files for the dock:
https://www.printables.com/de/model/555680-ipod-dockstand-for-gorroths-tpu-case
Edit/Update 2:
I now also made a storage/travel box you can 3D-print available to download here:
https://www.printables.com/de/model/565265-ipod-classic-5-box-inkl-kabel-management-airtag-ed
Look at my post on the box here for details:
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Awesome! Next update should be USB-C
Thanks! Actually I looked up if that’s possible somehow, but unfortunately it seems not. Or at least not in an easy way
I mean the pins are there. You would need to des older the connector and install a female USB-C one with 4 pins. Something like this. Then you’d likely need to print some holder/cover. For it.
Yes you are right. Designing a holder or cover for it to hold it in place wouldn’t be a problem for me once it’s soldered in (especially as there are two little screws holding a plastic surrounding of the 30pin I could repurpose). But I don’t have the tools and skill to solder something that small…
I see, the connector is soldered to the main board directly, you’d need to desolder it which is a risk. Second best is to take an old docking cable and change the USB-A to USB-C… also digging into that connector pin out… it’s crazy! It has USB, FireWire, analog video and analog audio out!!! No wonder it had so many pins!
Yep I saw that when it was disassembled. But as I use this one with my 2013 MacBook Pro, which has USB A Ports I think I’m good for now :)