The goal of this post is to introduce the process of making a portable Samsung Android DEX-based touch monitor using off-the-shelf products for everyone.
1. Project Name : Suntanbymi
2. Project Purpose
Building a portable Android DEX touch monitor that anyone can easily make using off-the-shelf products
3. Introduction to the Result
Suntanbymi Introduction Video
4. Project Duration: September ~ October 2022, approximately 4 weeks
5. Project Budget: Under 800,000 KRW (considering prices for the Samsung DeX Station and other products)
6. Key Components
7. Project Product Creation: Step-by-Step Progress
Step 1 – Making the Lower Stand Base
– Components: 400mm diameter, 12mm thick wooden round plate
– Purchase Link: https://smartstore.naver.com/jlinedesign/products/4849471093
– Price: 6,000 KRW (Shipping fee separate)
We decided to use easy-to-work-with wood materials. However, considering potential damage or tilting due to weight, we selected the thickest product available among ready-made items that are easy to purchase. In some cases, we considered buying two and attaching them, but after building it, it appears that one is sufficient.
2 – Connecting Low-Noise Wheels
– Components: Shelfnara Premium Low-Noise Wheels
– Purchase Link: https://link.coupang.com/a/FfkW6
– Price: 14,000 KRW (Based on 4-pack, shipping fee separate)
Since the product needs to be pushed around the house, I chose low-noise wheels. I actually tested a few other products I bought, and this one had the least noise and wasn't too big, so it was suitable for the size I wanted to make.
Since it is a 4-pack product, I bought only 4 to test the build, but if the center of gravity was even slightly off, the stand would wobble, so it was necessary to place at least 5 to prevent it from tilting to one side.
Since the wheels had to be attached exactly at five equal divisions, i.e., 72 degrees, I racked my brains and gave up, then used Fusion 360 to draft it and printed it out at A4 size in six divisions to mark where the parts should be located. As a bonus, I also marked the position where the black pipe flange, which needs to be attached in the next step, should be placed. At this time, considering where the pipe would connect, I positioned it as much as possible on the outer edge, where the monitor and monitor arm will connect.
However, this may need to be adjusted depending on the usage environment, as momentum needs to be considered. (In my case, I just threw it in roughly.)
Each location requires connecting 4 screw spacers, but since working on them directly with a driver is difficult, the author uses a drill to create screw holes to a certain extent and then fastens the screw spacers.
Step 3 – Black Pipe Flange and Pipe Connection
– Components: Black Pipe
– Purchase Link
Pipe Product: https://smartstore.naver.com/vinters/products/6048133474
Price: 16,940 KRW (Shipping fee separate)
Flange Product: https://smartstore.naver.com/vinters/products/2526416379
Price: Black Pipe 25A Flange, 5,580 KRW (Shipping fee separate)
Black Pipe Cap Product: https://smartstore.naver.com/vinters/products/2526416379
Price: Black Pipe 25A Cap, 4,480 KRW (Shipping fee separate)
First, mark the connection points just like in step 3, create a recess with a drill, and secure it using a screw piece.
Then, use the black pipe of 25A size and rotate it to tightly secure it to the flange and connection area. At this time, it must be fixed very tightly.
Then you can meet the completion of the stand components moving very smoothly like this. Thanks to the low-noise wheels, it moves very smoothly.
Step 4 – Connecting the Monitor Arm
– Components: Northbay (NB) Height Adjustable Monitor Arm
– Purchase Link: https://smartstore.naver.com/tvmart/products/6675557316
– Price: 21,000 KRW (Shipping fee separate)
When preparing to build, I thought it would be nice if the monitor itself had height adjustment functionality, so I deliberated on how to implement this and decided to use a height-adjustable monitor arm.
However, I spent a lot of time wondering how to connect the monitor arm and the stand itself. Upon reflection, I realized that for this product, the rod is installed first, and the structure is built by placing the monitor arm on top of it. I decided to use this monitor arm for the build.
As shown in the picture, in the case of the NB monitor arm H100 I used, it can be confirmed that the diameter of the pipe it mounts to is 35mm.
Therefore, I needed a pipe or stand part that was exactly 35mm or slightly smaller, so after thinking it over, I chose a 25A standard pipe product.
As shown in the photo, a 25A standard pipe has an outer diameter of about 34mm (actually, it seems to be slightly less than 34mm). Therefore, although it is slightly smaller than the 35mm size, it is judged to be usable.
Actually, when I tested the assembly of the parts, they fit well, but there was a loose feeling. So, I decided to proceed by using duct tape to increase the diameter of the pipe connection area.
As I continued testing, I added more layers to create thickness until I found the right amount of resistance. Also, to prevent the monitor arm from falling down, I used the fixed parts included with the monitor arm to secure it tightly enough to support the height.
Finally, the black pipe cap is used to secure the top to prevent any possible top detachment.
Now, the stand and monitor arm are securely connected, and the main body of the monitor arm acts as a handle, providing a stable grip.
It was an unexpected effect that the monitor arm would improve the grip, but it seems to be a very satisfying additional effect.
Step 5 – Connecting the Touch Monitor
– Components: CrossOver 240FL75 USB Type DEX-supporting Touch Monitor
– Purchase Link: https://link.coupang.com/re/CSHARESDP?lptag=CFM47083179&pageKey=6451499372&itemId=14007910711&vendorItemId=81256531296
– Price: 279,000 KRW (Shipping fee separate)
Actually, this is the product that served as the starting point for this DIY project. I happened to search and discovered this product, so I bought it, and it really does DEX so well. I was a bit regretful about the 24-inch size, but in fact, I bought it with half-skepticism, but after actually purchasing and using it, the satisfaction level was extremely high.
Personally, I still find it baffling why this product isn't more popular. Of course, being a somewhat unusual product, its use cases may be limited, but if you are seriously considering DEX, I highly recommend trying this product.
240FL75 Product Review: https://blog.naver.com/progagmer/222882708084
Since this product has a VESA mount, it is connected using a monitor arm and the VESA mount.
Since the monitor itself is not a large size and is on the lighter side, it is necessary to adjust the monitor arm's force or tension to ensure proper leveling.
Step 6 – Connecting Galaxy A90 Android DEX
– Components: Used Galaxy A90 smartphone
– Purchase Link: Naver Auction App
– Price: 100,000 KRW (Shipping fee separate)
This is a used Galaxy A90 purchased through the Let's Beat app. To run DEX, a Galaxy phone that supports DEX is required, and the S series released after the Galaxy S8 mainly support DEX.
Among them, the A90 5G model is the only A-series model to support DEX. Therefore, considering performance relative to price, it was the best value-for-money choice, so I bought a used phone for around 100,000 won. If you look for a used phone with a slightly worse display condition, you should be able to purchase it at an even cheaper price and build a DEX environment. (Since you will be using DEX, it doesn't matter if the phone's display condition is a bit poor.)
DEX connection can be easily configured using the dedicated cable included with the CrossOver monitor. This system allows for simultaneous charging and DEX usage.
Since the concept is to always use DEX, I considered a way to attach it to the back of the monitor.
However, since there will be times when I need to take the phone off to use it, I tried to configure it so that it can be attached to the monitor using a cheap jelly case and a MagSafe sticker for iPhone.
And I removed the part where the MacSafe was attached from an unused iPhone MacSafe support case and attached it to the monitor.
Use double-sided tape to attach the MagSafe to the back of the monitor and attach the A90. The detachable system is complete.
Step 7 – PD Trigger for DC Power Connection
– Components: Eddylab 12V Supported PD Trigger (Select PN08N option)
– Purchase Link: https://smartstore.naver.com/eddylab7/products/4972885085
– Price: 4,000 KRW (Shipping fee separate)
Looking at the DC adapter for the 240FL75, you can see that it has a specification of 12Vdc 3A, as shown in the photo below. Therefore, to use a PD-compatible power bank to replace the DC power type, a solution that can connect to a 12V 3A power supply must be prepared.
Recently, as many power banks support PD 3.0 with various voltages, you can use a USB C to PD trigger to charge laptops and other devices using a power bank.
In this case, the part to consider is that many triggers do not check the voltage and mostly support 19V or 20V.
However, the PD trigger contains a chip that calls for the specified voltage, and the auxiliary battery, which has PD settings to communicate with that chip, plays the role of outputting that voltage.
Therefore, you must choose and purchase a PD trigger that can output the rated voltage you intend to use, tailored to your specific needs.
For the 240FL75, since the DC connector has a 2.5mm outer diameter, the PN08N, which supports 12V, was a perfect fit.
Step 8 – Wireless Power System Using a Power Bank
– Components: Velleman 40,000 mAh Power Bank
– Purchase Link: https://link.coupang.com/re/CSHARESDP?lptag=CFM47083179&pageKey=6636578982&itemId=15153661668&vendorItemId=82375156756
– Price: 99,800 KRW (Shipping fee separate)
Vellum Battery is a large-capacity battery with a capacity of 40,000 mAh. It supports 2 USB-C PD input/output.
Originally, I was testing another battery product that had a Passthrough (charge while using) function, but the product's introduction page stated that it could output 12V. However, after purchasing it and connecting the trigger to test, 12V was not output.
Later, I contacted the battery manufacturer, and they said the specs were false. (It was so boldly stated that I was genuinely surprised.. )
Upon checking, I received a response stating that PD 3.0 supports various specs, and 12V output is not a basic option but an area requiring additional development.
I will organize the PD charging-related information I learned about this battery separately.
Anyway, I started looking for another battery that could support both 12V 3A charging and passthrough at the same time. I received a response that Velleman's battery supports passthrough, but it wasn't listed in the official specs. After purchasing and testing, I confirmed that passthrough is possible, but it is limited to 5V input and output.
Upon investigation, it appears that the act of using batteries simultaneously with charging causes significant heat generation and shortens their lifespan. Therefore, it seems that other products with pass-through capabilities, similar to the ValueM battery, either limit output to 5V or are not recommended for use even if a pass-through function exists.
Therefore, lacking a deep understanding of batteries, and judging that issues could arise from using it at home, I gave up on the pass-through function. I selected and purchased a product that offers good value for money, providing stable 12V output with a large capacity, allowing for long-term wireless use after a single charge.
For detailed VEMO battery introduction and review, see the link below
Link : https://blog.naver.com/progagmer/222905047672
ValueM battery connected the trigger and tested it, outputting 11.9V, which is within the error margin of 12V.
Secure the trigger to the monitor's DC input section and connect the power using a USB C to C cable capable of supplying 60W of power. Since the total power we want to supply to the monitor is 12V x 3A = 36W, we must use a cable capable of supplying 36W of power.
In other words, the battery, cable, and PD trigger must be perfectly matched to provide an output that matches the rated voltage and current used by the monitor.
During the testing process, it was found that even if the input was 9V coming from a power bank that was either equipped with a wrongly purchased 19V trigger or boasted false specifications, the monitor would still turn on.
So, is the power unit designed to have PD power input functionality? I asked the manufacturer, but they gave me a look like they didn't understand a word I was saying. After talking with the manufacturer's technical department, they said that even if the power enters at 9V or 19V, it might be usable, but they advised me to use the rated voltage.
It is said that if you apply a voltage higher than the rated voltage, the current increases, which can cause the board to burn or be damaged, and if the voltage is low, the current is insufficient, so although it may operate immediately, the lack of required current can cause problems with components holding internal charge, leading to functional failures or malfunctions.
Therefore, you must!! check the adapter specifications and make sure to provide the rated voltage, and be sure to contact the manufacturer.
Next, attach the power bank to the center of the base using double-sided tape. I thought about a more specific fixing method, but since this project is a concept that anyone can easily make, I kept the production as simple as possible.
And then connect the cable for power supply.
There it is, the basic system connection for the wireless DEX portable monitor is complete.
Tests whether cables cause issues when actually moving the monitor for use.
You can confirm that it moves smoothly without any issues.
Step 9 – Cable Management Using Cable Ties
Use cable ties to neatly organize the cables that are dangling everywhere.
At this stage, we organize the components while considering the area of the drive unit and taking care to prevent interference.
8. Verifying Project Results
Although the height adjustment, tilt, and rotation are a bit stiff, it works well.
Also, by slightly shifting the center axis and adjusting, it is possible to adjust the up and down height to a larger value.
As expected of a portable monitor, it works great for carrying around the house.
Even my (slender?) wife is using it easily and well
Since this is a DEX environment using an Android device, you can easily use most video viewing apps available on Android devices, such as YouTube, Wave, and TVing, through touch.
Since Android devices support Xbox Game Pass, if a joystick compatible with Xbox exists, games based on Xbox Game Pass streaming can be played without issue. This method fits the A90 perfectly, especially since it does not have high specifications.
Games that support joysticks, such as Diablo Immortal, also allow gameplay using the joystick
For normal use, utilizing the battery wireless system allows for approximately 6 hours of operation.
9. Project Progress Video Process
The entire process has been made into a YouTube video
If anyone would like to try it out, you can easily attempt it by referring to the contents introduced above and the video below.
10. Project Cost
During the course of the Suntanbymi project, the costs used are roughly summarized as follows.
The figures below are based on the actual prices I purchased, rather than the current selling prices introduced above.
Material Costs: Plywood: 6,000 KRW 5x Low-noise Wheels: 15,000 KRW Black Pipe Flange & Pipe & Cap: 1,790 + 9,280 + 690 KRW Screws & Nuts: 2,000 KRW Height-adjustable Monitor Arm: ~20,000 KRW 24-inch Dex-supporting Touch Monitor: 269,000 KRW Galaxy A90 Used Phone: 100,000 KRW Suntanbymi Mac-Style Stand: 9,900 KRW 2-sided Silicone Tape: 6,900 KRW ValueM PD Support Power Bank: 99,000 KRW Misc. Materials: 2,000 KRW------------------------------------ Total: 541,560 KRWThis is not an exact figure, as shipping costs are excluded, and it includes products I already own, based on current selling prices, so there is some error.
However, it is judged that the construction is possible within approximately 600,000 KRW, and if some parts are purchased as used items instead of new products, it appears that it can be made even more cheaply.
Of course, my labor is not included in this cost calculation. (Maybe it's the most expensive... price too)
11. Project Weaknesses and Improvements
After actually building it and using it for nearly a month, I've noticed several issues.
1) The center of gravity is off, so it sometimes falls over – I think I need to limit the rotation axis area to solve this.
2) The monitor speaker sound is very poor – I think I need to connect external speakers or a soundbar to fix this.
3) The finishing quality of individual parts is low – It would be good to upgrade it using a 3D printer or other materials.
As I use it, I see many areas for improvement, and if I have time in the future, I plan to create upgraded improvement products.
12. Project Summary
Personally, it was a very satisfying project.
Actually, for over 10 years, I have been making and introducing various DIY products. Personally, I think this is the most useful product I use, and above all, my wife is using it with great satisfaction.
The project began last year when I tried using StandByMe and thought it would be great if it supported Android instead of WebOS.. In the meantime, since another company actually released a portable Android monitor of around 27 inches, I also wondered if proceeding with this project would still make sense.
However, as I gathered products and worked on the design while taking breaks, I was able to acquire knowledge about the power, operating methods, and specifications of products that I had used so easily and naturally. Also, I think it turned out to be a product that is cheaper and prettier than I expected.
Also, since the difficulty of making this is not as high as past DIY projects, I think that after publishing this post, others will find it content worth challenging themselves with. Therefore, I think it will remain as more useful content compared to the past.