Metal USB - Flash Drive Case Mod

by LinuxH4x0r in Circuits > USB

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Metal USB - Flash Drive Case Mod

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A case mod for a Flash Drive made with a heatsink.

Find Parts

You will need:

Flash Drive I used a PNY attache (256 - yeah, it that old (2yrs))
A metal case I used a heatsink form a dimmer, but anything should work (golo e115041 sc237)
Keychain Flashdrive -keys= external hard drive I'd reccomend something, but it's not critical
Nails I used a strip of brads for an air nailer, but anything will work
Glue Super glue (loctite gel) and plastic cement (testors -for models)

Tools:
Drill For attaching keychain and a hole for the light (I was lucky and didn't need a hole for the light)
Pliers
File Sharp corners, etc
Hacksaw blade you can use a file instead
Leaterman Do I even need a reason?! /Just cuz
A Brain Don't cut yourself, ruin your computer, etc IF YOU DO IT"S NOT MY FAULT

Case

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If you need to file, cut, etc the case to the right size. File the edges and drill the holes for the keycain and light. Using some sort of spacer cut a slot in the inside of the case for the board of the drive to slide into.
It's hard to give general instructions for this sort of thing so bear with me and look at the pictures.

Put in Drive

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Depending on your drive you might want to wrap it in tape to prevent it shorting on the metal case (you can also use plastidrip spray). Slide the drive in the slots you cut earlier use lots of glue to hold it in place or it will break like it did the first time I did this. If it needs it glue a space on to of the drive. Break the strip of brads to the right width (I score the glue on both sides with the knofe and snap it) and glue it on top. Use a generous amount so it doesn't break. Remember that if you are anything like me you will carry this in your pocket evey day for a couple of years, so it needs every drop of glue it can get. Let it dry over night before carrying it.

Final Thoughts

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My flash drive lasted me 2 years before it broke and hopefully it will live many more years. As the case gets old it starts it get scratched (aluminum) and develops some character giving it a very industrial look.

I hope you enjoyed this instructable as much as I enjoyed making it.

Please leave me a comment with suggestions, improvements and other ideas.

Thanks,
LinuxH4x0r