Swapping KBD75V1's Mini USB to USB-C?

[Sahilia]

Hey guys,

i've been using my KBD75V1 for over 2 years now. Back when i just got into this hobby it was my first keeb and i'm still using it to this date for work.
It's unique in its own ways as i'm using the ISO DE-layout at work, so i decided to go with that on this keeb aswell.

My question is - is there any method to exchange the old Mini-USB port with a USB-C one?
It doesn't have to be beautiful by any means, i just want it to be functional. I know i could just buy the V2 version but i don't want to desolder and resolder the switches etc. if possible.

Thanks in advance,

Sahilia

[Findecanor]

If you don't want to desolder anything, then your only option is to use an external adaptor.

In a keyboard for which I had built my own case, I had desoldered the Mini B socket, which was through-hole and replaced it with a cable to a USB Type C breakout board located at another place in the case.

USB C is different from Mini-B and Micro-B in that it requires two resistors connected to the device socket: some breakout boards have surface-mounted resistors while others don't and you'd have to solder on some which would require more space inside the case.
There are also three general types of USB C sockets: USB 3.x, USB 2.0 and charging-only. Keyboards use USB 2.0, but a USB 3.x socket would also work.

[Leslieann]

Yep, USB broke all the old "rules" for swapping ports.

May want to look at just installing a magnetic USB cable and forgetting the port altogether.

[Pyk_]

I guess it physically wouldn’t work, but it sure would be nice if they made a usb c 2.0 receptacle that fit a mini or micro PCB pad.

[Leslieann]

I guess it physically wouldn’t work, but it sure would be nice if they made a usb c 2.0 receptacle that fit a mini or micro PCB pad.

Oh, it can be done, it's just a major pain in the neck unless you have some pretty good tools (hot air station) and good solder skills.

[Findecanor]

May want to look at just installing a magnetic USB cable and forgetting the port altogether.

I googled for magnetic Mini-B, but couldn't find any. Only for A, micro-B and C.

[Leslieann]

Yeah, I've been looking as well.
I did find a solderable magnetic that could swap it out the mini connector (easier than converting to type-c) and a very flush mount Mini to micro, but that was as close as I came. I was even checking manufacturers and coming up empty.  Doesn't help Chinese companies have no consideration that when discussing USB connectors mini shouldn't be used to describe a micro connector.


I don't know if it helps OP or not, also for my future reference:
Spring loaded magnetic 4pin charger connector cable for smart watch
https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Spring-loaded-magnetic-4pin-charger-connector_62383675222.html?spm=a2700.wholesale.deiletai6.3.4617de5c96MZan

90 degree mini to micro adapter
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4001170882838.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.11344a72aZIxfb&algo_pvid=b641bcca-8894-488e-b569-37541694762d&algo_expid=b641bcca-8894-488e-b569-37541694762d-32&btsid=0ab6f82315980147101704584e1662&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_,searchweb201603_

[Sahilia]

Thanks alot for the replies! I tought it would be a lot easier.
A magnetic adapter would be quite nice, sadly i couldn't find any from C to Mini USB.

The 90 degree Mini to Micro looks nice though, i just don't like Mini USB as it is pretty chonky and i use USB-C for all my peripherals.
But i guess i'll give that a shot and just leave the keeb as is.

[Leslieann]

Well I was thinking install the soldered magnetic in place of the current port.
The other option, that ribbon was you could use that and from that convert to magnetic or type C. It's so thin and flat you could attach it and never see it.

Either way I hope it gave you some options and ideas.

[Sahilia]

Yeah, i truly was able to get some ideas using that ribbon adapter!
I could just shorten the cable and solder on a USB-C female port to the other end.
I have also been looking for magnetic Mini USB cables but had absolutely no luck so far. Couldn't even find one on AliExpress or AliBaba.
Atleast i was able to get some ideas and i'll just try some things out.
Mini USB ain't even that bad, it just sucks plugging it in as the connector is so bulky in a weird way.