Welcome to my tale of transformation in the realm of tech Modding and upcycling. Ever since I can remember, gadgets have held a magical allure for me, Much like my Alladin ‘Jafar Staff’, my favourite childhood toy! (on googling for images for this article, I now regret losing it! these are rare!)
My journey in tech modding began in my youth was filled with moments of wonder, often sparked by the sight of the latest mobile phone or laptop from the 80s/90s that my father would bring home from work. Those early experiences ignited a deep-seated intrigue in me, an enchantment with the world of technology that grew stronger over time.
In my family, I earned the nickname ‘the fidgeter’ — a pet name that came about affectionately but not without exasperation. I was the kid whose curious fingers couldn’t resist exploring every button and dial, much to the mild annoyance of anyone whose car dashboard fell under my inquisitive gaze. The memory of a gentle hand swatting mine away from yet another unexplored button is vivid, but it never diminished my enthusiasm.
Today, I still proudly identify with that title. My fascination with tech is as passionate as ever, a constant thread woven through my life, shaping my interests and passions. This deep-rooted curiosity has led me on many adventures and discoveries in the ever-evolving world of gadgets and technology.
This post discusses channelling that lifelong passion into breathing new life into old technology. Specifically, I’ll share my experiences with tech modding and upcycling: modding a PSP Go and transforming an old Android phone into a versatile smart remote.
Reviving the PSP Go: A Tech Modding Adventure
Section 1: Modding the PSP Go
This particular PSP holds more than just technological value to me; it’s a token of connection and nostalgia. It originally belonged to Michael’s father, a man I never had the chance to meet but one I feel a kinship with. He was not only an avid gamer with an impressive collection spanning various consoles but also a fellow enthusiast of gadgets and tinkering. His array of devices, from consoles to mobile phones and even plasma balls, paints the picture of a kindred spirit.
My intrigue with the PSP stemmed from its remarkable ability to play PS1 games in such a sleek, compact design. Though I had never owned one, I remember poring over the Argos catalogue, my eyes lingering on the PSP, imagining the possibilities. As a proud owner of a PS1 and PS2, the idea of playing those games on a portable device was particularly appealing.
The Modding Process:
Modding the PSP-1003 with system software 5.50 turned into an adventure of its own. Selecting the right Custom Firmware (CFW) was critical. I opted for Pro CFW, which is known for its stability and popularity among the modding community. The process was meticulous: backing up existing data, ensuring the battery was fully charged, and carefully managing the transfer of firmware files onto the PSP. When I ran the installer, it was a moment of anticipation. The PSP was successfully rebooted, and it is now transformed and ready to play PS1 games and support custom ROMs. It felt like unlocking a treasure trove of gaming nostalgia.
Wi-Fi Compatibility Challenge:
A significant challenge was the PSP’s outdated WEP security compatibility. This presented a unique obstacle in a world where WPA2 is the norm. My solution was to create a ‘neutral zone’ on my router. This dedicated space allowed the PSP to connect to the internet safely and effectively without posing a risk to my network’s security. This workaround solved the compatibility issue and symbolised the essence of tech modding — finding creative solutions to bridge the old with the new.
Useful Links:
From Obsolete to Essential: Upcycling an Old Android Phone
The OnePlus 2 that became this project’s centrepiece had languished in a drawer for years, a forgotten relic of my past tech adventures. Initially, it served as my daily driver, but its limitations didn’t take long to surface. Compared to the sleek performance and refined user interface of Samsung models, the OnePlus 2 felt sluggish, and its operating system didn’t quite measure up. Its early retirement was inevitable, but little did I know it was destined for a more intriguing future.
Transforming an Old Android Phone into a Smart Remote:
The idea to repurpose the OnePlus 2 sprang from a combination of necessity and inspiration. Michael, my partner, often found himself at odds with Alexa, struggling to get her to seamlessly interact with our home assistant and the array of connected smart devices. I envisioned transforming this old Android phone into an intelligent remote to ease his frustration and inject a bit of tech flair into our daily lives. But not just any remote — one that carried the essence of sci-fi charm with the LCARS theme from Star Trek, known for its distinct, futuristic interface.
The Transformation Process
Armed with a full kiosk and Home Assistant, the transformation began. The LCARS theme was a natural choice, given its sleek, intuitive design that promised ease of use and a nod to our shared love for Star Trek. The process was more than just a technical task; it was like weaving together nostalgia threads with modern technology’s practicality. The outcome was a functional reborn device and a unique addition to our home automation system.
Practical Applications
This revamped phone now stands as a testament to the potential of repurposed technology. It’s the central command for our smart home, simplifying the control of lights, temperature, and security, all from a single, intuitive interface. It’s a blend of the past and present, a bridge between yesterday’s gadgets and today’s innovative technology.
Useful Links:
Conclusion
My journey in tech modding and upcycling has been more than a hobby; it’s been a trip of rediscovery and innovation. The joy isn’t just in the nostalgia or the tinkering itself but in the realisation that these forgotten gadgets can be repurposed for new, exciting roles. I urge my fellow tech enthusiasts to delve into tech modding. Share your stories of transformation, celebrate your successes, and embrace the unique challenges along the way. Together, let’s breathe new life into old technology, keeping the spirit of innovation and creativity alive and thriving.
See my other blogs for more retro geeki-ness!