Windows Mixed Reality Controller Self-Rechargeable Battery Mod

thingiverse

<b>This modification is intended for all standard WMR controllers.</b> Unfortunately, the Samsung Odyssey controllers are not currently supported, but if someone creates a replica of the Odyssey controller battery cover, I'd be happy to modify it to work or provide my blueprint for making a fully compatible cover from scratch. It would be great to use this on my Odyssey as well! <h1>Disclaimer</h1> <b>This modification involves using a lithium ion 14500 battery that the Windows Mixed Reality controllers were not designed to use.</b> Although evidence suggests it's safe, there's still an element of risk involved. By default, WMR controllers use two AA batteries in series for a total of 3v. This modification uses a single USB rechargeable Li-ion 14500 battery operating at significantly higher voltage: 3.7v (4.2v when fully charged). The battery is recharged while inside the controller; some charging current may also flow through the controller with unknown effect. I've personally used this mod for over a dozen hours without issue, including half a dozen charging cycles. I've also tested it on four additional WMR controllers and they seemed to tolerate it fine. Based on my experience, I've decided to share it with others. However, there could still be long-term damage or shortened controller lifespan that hasn't become apparent yet. Please realize that <b>employing this modification remains at your own risk!</b> <h1>Introduction</h1> Microsoft's Windows Mixed Reality technology is impressive in many ways, but one area for improvement is the battery life of WMR controllers. By modifying the rear battery cover and using a lithium ion 14500 battery, you can significantly extend the battery life of your controllers. <h1>Modification Overview</h1> To modify your WMR controller, you'll need to: 1. Place the Klarus 14500 battery into the controller, ensuring it's in the proper compartment and the micro USB port is facing forward. 2. Install a bridge (such as a #8-32 by 2 inch machine screw or a rolled piece of aluminum foil) between the two compartments. 3. Power on the controller and ensure it's working properly. <h1>Tips</h1> * If the 14500 battery isn't making good contact, try folding up a small piece of aluminum foil and wedging it next to the positive contact. * When using aluminum foil for your bridge, tear off two pieces slightly longer than the battery, roll them up tightly, and then cut them down to size. * If the battery compartment clip prints too weak or breaks off, you can wrap electrical tape around the controller just beneath the grip button to hold the cover in place. <h1>Miscellaneous Q&A</h1> * <b>What is the battery life?</b> I measured 8.5 to 9 hours on my stopwatch before the controller started reporting low power and powered off. * <b>Are you sure this modification is really safe?</b> No, see the big disclaimer at the top! With that being said, based on my use so far, I think it's probably safe. I wouldn't have shared it with anyone else otherwise. We need a few more guinea pigs to try the mod and report back with their results!