iPod remote in backpack strap

[Joshdude]

I just got the iPod remote, and while I am overall happy with it, I have one problem. The cord combined with the headphone cord makes for a long and tangly mess. I could stuff it all in my pocket, but this is hard because there are wires coming out of both ends. So I decided that I wanted to somehow integrate the iPod remote into my backpack strap. As of now, I'm avoiding my homework by experimenting, but I think I have a reasonable solution worked out. I just need to see how well it works on my "practice strap." More to follow.

[Matrixsjd]

oooooo awesome, I'd like to see some pics and info whenever you work it out, very cool

[jwc110869]

Are you trying to copy those Burton Amp Packs?

I don't blame you, they're like almost $200

[Matrixsjd]

seriously, I want something like that but not for $200 wayyyyy too much

[Joshdude]

Those are waaay better than mine. They're fully integrated, tucked in, etc. I just want to be able to use the remote.

[Joshdude]

Ok I can't get the stupid picture to post. Here's the link. http://img73.exs.cx/img73/7356/DSCN0418.jpg
Picture of prototype. Very hastily done, sloppy, and the like. This was just to try out my basic idea, which seems to work.

[jwc110869]

a little of mama's sewing at that could be quite good

[Joshdude]

Yeh, my sewing isn't excellent. But, as I said, it'll be better on my actual backpack. I foresee problems, though. My backpack has those curvy straps, not straight ones.

[jwc110869]

Maybe you can unstitch the strap, then feed the cable, then use the sewing maching to put it back together. I miss Home Ec.

[stevesurf]

Very cool idea, indeed.

The weak point of the remote is where it meets the iPod - i've gone through 3 of them. Make a small loop so the iPod end doesn't pull or kink (you can use a white or clear ty-wrap for this). That will stop the cable from developing intermittent connections.

[Joshdude]

I'd do that if I planned on using it more than I do. Right now, this would be only for walking to/from school, etc. When I'm just sitting around, there's no need for a remote.

[kloan]

i had to re-solder mine and i used stronger glue than apple's crummy rubber crap.. i used Goop.. stuff works wonders..

as far as the extra cord, why not just tie it using slipknots? i saw someone else on here do that, so i did it to mine and it's perfect now... no extra cord..

[altcountryman]

Josh - that's way cool. With a little sewing skill, I bet a really nice setup could be had. I'm picturing a sewn-in clear plastic section so you can see the remote and use the buttons through the plastic. (If there are any skydivers in the Lounge, I'm pictiring the window in your rig where the Cypres goes).

Cool project!

[Joshdude]

Yeah I'm working on that right now, in fact. My first idea seemed to work at first, but fell apart during testing today.

[Futzy]

Excellent idea... thanks for posting the pics too.

If you're not too thrilled at the prospect of tearing your backpack apart, you might want to make a wire conduit out of some material. I'm thinking something like a 'cotton tube' you could simply sew ON to your straps. I'm sure there are plenty of material places handy. You could even find the rip-stop nylon to match. The way the remote attaches, you may only need to create a small slot for the teeth to bite onto.

Maybe worth a try before you start tearing your bag apart. (Use the material from the practice strap).