A module is a device featuring connector(s) conforming to a certain spec. By extension, a Retro Module is the same, featuring connector(s) conforming to this spec.
Please click on one of the sections above to learn more about a specific module.
The Internet of Things has presented a problem: the market seems to want large devices that are connected to the internet, yet manufacturer software updates are rare. These large devices have many modular internal components, but are not easy to replace nor service. If these large devices started featuring hot-pluggable cartridges, consumers could replace stock cartridges with custom ones, or upgraded ones from the manufacturer.
These cartridges, estimated to be about the size of an old hard drive, would contain a small computer capable of withstanding the stress of being unplugged without notice. There are a few methods one can use to adapt popular credit-card-sized computers to be hot-pluggable. First of all, existing hot-pluggable interfaces make life easy: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB & BaseT. All of these connections can be expected to survive hot plugging. What remains: power. Given the estimated size of the enclosure, there should be enough room for a temporary power source (i.e. a USB-friendly battery or similar). With a temporary power source in play, the computer can stay powered while it responds to an automatic shutdown command.
Please click on one of the sections above to learn more about a specific module.
These modules will require two things: plenty of contacts for power & data, and contacts of varied length to support safer hot-plugging. Take a look at a classic USB cable or USB key. The inner pair of contacts (data) are shorter than the outer pair (power). This allows the USB device to ground & power up milliseconds before the data pair is connected.
There are many connectors which share this characteristic. One in particular may be an ideal fit for the Retro Specification: SCA. These connectors were popular in slightly dated SCSI drive bays. Consider adopting the 102mm x 25mm drive bay spec (3.5" imperial) for your hot-pluggable modules. There should be enough room for a credit-card-sized computer, small battery & short cables. You might be able to use an existing hot-pluggable SCSI drive bay featuring an SCA connector. Also consider depth of the module. Most walls are not as deep as a computer hard drive, meaning a full-length module would stick out of a wall socket.
- Hot-Pluggable Computing Cluster
- TV
- Fridge
- Microwave
- Coffee Maker
- Dishwasher
- Clothes Washer
- Clothes Dryer
- Garage Door Opener
- Vehicle
- Recreational Vehicle