KrustyPlanet/cyberdeck
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cyberdeck/docs/design-decisions.md
BarnacleBoy ef9a7f40a8 add port layout and video output decisions 
- Mechanical HDMI A/B switch for internal/external display toggle
- DisplayLink rejected: no ARM drivers exist
- 10-port layout split across 4 surfaces
- Port side: 4x USB-A, 1x USB-C data, 1x USB-C PD out
- Starboard: Ethernet, HDMI out, 3.5mm audio
- Bow: USB-C power input + fan exhaust
- Stern: handle, SD reader, Kensington lock
- Updated BOM with HDMI switch, panel-mount cables, SD reader
- Cost estimate now ~58
2026-05-12 07:18:54 +00:00

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Design Decisions

Build Approach

Wooden case with salvaged laptop lid (screen + hinge) as the canopy. Approximate briefcase dimensions, with the display panel setting minimum width and depth.

Salvage Exclusions

  • Webcam: Scrapped. Proprietary pinout, not worth reverse engineering.
  • Keyboard/trackpad: Proprietary connectors, not reusable.
  • RAM: DDR3L soldered, wrong generation.
  • SSD: Owner repurposed.
  • WiFi card: Intel 7265NGW needs M.2 E-key, OPi5 base lacks it.

Case Orientation & Nomenclature

User sits at the stern, facing the bow. Hinge axis runs port-to-starboard along the bow edge.

Base (wooden enclosure)

Term Surface Notes
Deck Top Keyboard, controls, SBC access
Keel Bottom Sits on table
Bow Back edge (spine side) Power input, heat exhaust, farthest from user
Stern Front edge (lip side) User-facing, keyboard near here
Port Left (facing bow)
Starboard Right (facing bow)

Canopy (laptop lid + screen)

Term Surface
Canopy dorsal Outside of lid
Canopy ventral Screen side

Bow Wall Functions

  • Power input (USB-C for IP5389 board charging)
  • Exhaust fans blowing away from user
  • Heat management surface

Carry Handle

Stern edge (lip). Screen is lightweight, hinge is rigid, and a lid latch is planned — so the canopy-open-under-gravity concern is handled. Keeps the bow wall dedicated to power input and exhaust.

Power System

IP5389 power bank board (preliminary). All-in-one: charging, BMS, USB-C PD output. See power-system.md for details.

Video Output

Mechanical HDMI A/B switch (passive, no power). Routes OPi5's single HDMI to either the internal eDP-to-HDMI controller or a panel-mount HDMI jack on the starboard side. DisplayLink doesn't work on ARM — no drivers exist. Dual simultaneous display is not possible on the base OPi5.

Input Device

ThinkPad TrackPoint keyboard (specific model TBD based on availability). Chosen for built-in TrackPoint pointer and 15.6" deck space compatibility.

Carry Handle

Stern edge (lip). Screen is lightweight, hinge is rigid, and a lid latch is planned — so the canopy-open-under-gravity concern is handled. Keeps the bow wall dedicated to power input and exhaust.