Click to See Complete Forum and Search --> : Do-it-yourself Stylus clip fix.


Matt Musante
09-29-2002, 10:15 AM
I have been browsing these boards for a day or so and I have noticed that there are many other IPAQ owners whose stylus does not stay in the barrel when inserted. I came up with a DIY fix a few months ago and now it looks like there's a company selling an aluminum stylus clip. If it wasn't so expensive I might get one, but here's how you fix the original plastic stylus clip in the meantime:

What you need:

a q-tip (plastic-stemmed cotton swab)
scissors
screwdriver (to open the IPAQ)

Note: this may void your warranty.

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open your ipaq and remove the stylus clip
cut a 5mm short section from the plastic stem of the q-tip
insert the pointy end of the stylus clip into the hole in the plastic tube you just made from the q-tip stem. *see note below
the plastic peice should now extend the length of your stylus clip and allow it to make contact with the stylus.
test the stylus clip by holding it in its original place in the ipaq, and insert the stylus.
if the stylus does not fit, or does not eject, trim a bit of the plastic from the end of the q-tip section, until the stylus ejects.
when the stylus clip functions properly, re-assemble the IPAQ.
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*Note: the best way to trim the plastic is to cut it so that one end has a sharp edge. That sharp edge will fit nicely into the goove on the stylus pen.

When this is complete, your stylus will again stay inserted, and may even have a better ejection.

DScott
09-29-2002, 10:47 AM
Greetings;

I have had my stylis replaced using the self kit about four months ago and have been real happy with it. It does void your warranty to open your unit.

!!!!!! Warning!!!!!!!
Before opening your unit perform a complete backup and then turn the power off to your unit. Basically your going to perform a hard reset after which you will need to restore your unit from the backed up info. I don't suggest that anyone open up thier case unless you know what you are doing.
I would also suggest that you send your unit in for this repair but if you don't want to do that purchase the correct repair kit because the "Q-tip" is also going to wear out and you'll be doing it again.
Thanks Matt Musante for another option for those who want to use it.

Scott