BarnacleBoy
3c11190822
- docs/sbc-selection.md: full rewrite for OPi 3B specs (RK3566, 8GB, 256GB eMMC, built-in WiFi) - README.md: SBC description, checklist, components table, quick ref, cost estimate - docs/parts-list.md: SBC marked purchased, eMMC/controller/WiFi changes - docs/design-decisions.md: WiFi exclusion reason, native eDP, power input - docs/salvage-analysis.md: WiFi card not needed, cooling fan, summary tables - docs/storage-architecture.md: rewritten for 256GB eMMC primary boot - docs/usb-expansion.md: 2x USB3 native, port allocation, power budget - docs/port-layout.md: OPi3B port differences (eDP, power-only USB-C, built-in WiFi) - docs/power-system.md: lower power draw context
4.8 KiB
Salvage Analysis: ASUS K501U
Source: ASUS K501U laptop with failed motherboard Goal: Extract usable components for cyberdeck build
Display Panel
Identification
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | Innolux N156HGE-EAB (Rev. C2) |
| Size | 15.6" diagonal |
| Resolution | 1920×1080 (FHD) |
| Interface | 30-pin eDP |
| Backlight | LED |
| Panel type | IPS |
Verification Process
- Removed bezel clips (plastic tabs around screen edge)
- Located panel sticker on back of LCD assembly
- Confirmed model number: N156HGE-EAB
- Verified 30-pin connector (not 40-pin, not LVDS)
Compatibility
Standard eDP controller boards work with this panel.
Search terms:
- "N156HGE-EAB controller board"
- "30-pin eDP to HDMI"
- "LCD controller board 15.6"
Cost: ~$24 (Amazon/eBay/AliExpress)
Notes
- Panel is in good condition, no scratches or dead pixels
- Keep original bezel and frame for mounting
- Hinge mechanism intact - useful for clamshell design
Storage
Original Configuration
The K501U had an M.2 NVMe SSD installed.
Status: Owner already removed and repurposed. Now in a USB enclosure serving as external drive. Not available for this build.
RAM
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | DDR3L (low voltage) |
| Speed | 1600 MHz |
| Location | Soldered onboard (no SODIMM slot populated) |
| Capacity | 8GB (varies by SKU) |
Not reusable:
- DDR3L is incompatible with modern SBCs (DDR4/DDR5)
- Soldered to motherboard, not a removable DIMM
- K501U base model has empty SODIMM slot but uses soldered RAM
WiFi
Original Card
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | Intel 7265NGW |
| Form factor | M.2 2230 |
| Interface | M.2 E-key |
| Protocols | 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.0 |
Reusability
Not needed — OPi3B has built-in WiFi 5 + BT 5.0.
The Intel 7265NGW card is not required because the Orange Pi 3B has integrated WiFi and Bluetooth. The K501U's dual-band antenna (U.FL connectors embedded in the hinge) may still be useful — it could be adapted to the OPi3B's onboard WiFi for better signal than the built-in PCB antenna.
Workaround
Not needed for WiFi — built-in covers it. If the K501U antenna can be adapted (U.FL to IPEX connector), it may improve reception over the OPi3B's onboard antenna.
Other Components
Webcam
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Embedded in display bezel |
| Interface | USB (internal cable to motherboard) |
| Connector | Proprietary pinout |
Potential reuse:
- Can be extracted with bezel
- Requires USB pinout identification
- Standard webcam protocol (UVC) likely supported
- May need adapter cable
Cooling Fan
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Blower fan with heat pipes |
| Interface | 4-pin PWM |
| Connector | Standard laptop fan connector |
Potential reuse:
- Could cool Orange Pi 3B (with PWM adapter)
- RK3566 runs cooler (~3-5W) than RK3588 — passive heatsink may suffice
- Blower fan may be overkill but provides headroom
Keyboard/Trackpad
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | Integrated PCB, proprietary connector |
| Trackpad | Precision trackpad, proprietary connector |
Not reusable:
- Proprietary motherboard connectors
- No standard USB interface
- Requires significant reverse engineering
WiFi Antenna
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Embedded indisplay hinge |
| Type | Dual-band antenna |
| Cable | U.FL connectors |
Reusable with USB WiFi dongle:
- Antenna can be connected to compatible dongle
- U.FL to SMA adapter cable needed
- Good signal reception quality
Hinge Mechanism
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Dual-hinge laptop hinge |
| Condition | Intact, smooth operation |
| Mount | Metal frame attached to display |
Useful for cyberdeck:
- Natural open/close mechanism
- Can support display weight
- Mounting points for base
Summary
Direct Reuse
| Component | Effort | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Low (with controller or native eDP) | High |
| Hinge | Low | Medium |
| WiFi antenna | Low (with adapter to OPi3B onboard WiFi) | Low |
Not Reused
| Component | Reason |
|---|---|
| SSD | Already repurposed |
| RAM | Wrong generation |
| WiFi card | OPi3B has built-in WiFi+BT |
| Keyboard/trackpad | Proprietary connectors |
| Motherboard | Failed |
New Components Needed
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| eDP controller board | $24 (may be optional — OPi3B has native eDP) |
| SBC (Orange Pi 3B) | $189 (purchased) |
Reference
- Panel datasheet: Innolux N156HGE-EAB product brief
- K501U teardown: Standard ASUS budget laptop construction
- Orange Pi 5 specs: orangepi.org