iPod Install Guides » Original » Parts » Dock » Plate » Install
Part 3: Preparing the Face Plate
- Get Faceplate Template. Click the diagram below to get an enlarged template
and print it out. If you want more precision, you can download the template
as a DXF or Illustrator (version
10) file.
- Check to make sure the print out is close to scale (6-7/8" wide).
- Cut the template out of paper first and see if it
fits properly in your cupholder. If not, make whatever adjustments
are necessary and cut another template. Warning: The hole can be pretty
difficult to place. You will need to put the iPod in the dock contraption
and drop it into the cup holder area. I suggest trial and error with
a piece of cut paper first before committing to the location on your
plastic face plate.
IMPORTANT: Depending on the thickness of your material, you may have to make more severe adjustments. - Once your template is ready, secure it to your notebook cover (tape, rubber cement, low-tack mount, etc.) and cut the exterior with a sharp xacto knife.
- Cut the opening for the iPod. You only need to cut 3 sides. The 4th side should simply be scored slightly for folding. Round-off the edges for a cleaner look and better “slide” for the iPod.
- Reinforce the bottom of the plate. I used popsickle sticks, but if you have anything better, I'd suggest you use that instead. I placed 1 stick along the front edge, and layered the other 5 sticks on the back. (1 row of 3, then another row of 2 on top of that). The back one should be fairly sturdy since that’s what’s going to hold your iPod up. I used SuperGlue on the sticks, but it didn’t hold real well, so I supplemented it with electrical tape.
- Fold down the flap where the iPod will be inserted. You will cut off the excess flap later.
Reference Photos:
iPod Install Guides » Original » Parts » Dock » Plate » Install