Using the bluetooth module port of the x230 to power a tracker.

[Dro]

I don't know if anyone will find this useful but here it is:

I've been playing around lately installing trackers into various things, so here's a one on my x330

I used a spare usb adapter I had



And a findmy compatible tracker that I had laying around
.


Ready to be installed



Inside the x330



And In the findmy app


The downside is that it only works when the laptop is powered on, I'll add eventually a small backup battery and perhaps tap the connector directly so the tracker can sit right on top

Suggestions are always welcome

[TPFanatic]

That BT/USB port is only good for 3.3v. So I have trouble finding good use from it for anything other than the original BT module. Good on you.

[Dro]

That BT/USB port is only good for 3.3v. So I have trouble finding good use from it for anything other than the original BT module. Good on you.

3,3v is not as bad as it sound, let's see.

You could use it to power an arduino nano

An NFC reader

Mount a small switch and use it to power leds

Install an extra wifi module

Use it for a dead man's switch

Just a few examples off the top of my head

[Dro]

An update in case someone wants to try something similar:

I ended up using a 2032 battery as a secondary source, should last for years as it only needs to power the tracker when the laptop is off.

I installed a diode to avoid any back feeding to the usb port



Installed inside the x330



Everything ended up fitting pretty neatly without any bulging, overall I'm quite happy how it turned out