Adding an extra USB port inside your laptop may seem like a simple task, but as demonstrated by tech enthusiast Joshua Stein, it can present some challenges and require a creative approach. In a recent project involving a Thinkpad X1 Nano, Stein embarked on a journey to integrate a USB port inside the laptop case to accommodate a Logitech mouse’s USB receiver.

Initially, Stein explored the possibility of utilizing the available USB 2.0 slots on the M.2 B-key, A-key, and E-key connectors. While plug-and-play adapters for these slots are available on platforms like eBay, Lenovo’s implementation of wireless card whitelists posed a hurdle. Attempts to modify the whitelist led to BIOS digital signature check failures, prompting Stein to consider alternative solutions.

Stein’s experimentation involved testing the USB connection with an FPC breakout, but he opted for a more advanced approach. He designed a flexible PCB to reroute the fingerprint connector signals to create space inside the laptop case for the USB receiver. The PCB also included a 5V step-up, enhancing the functionality of the internal USB port.

To complete the modification, Stein designed a 3D-printed spacer to occupy the vacant spot left by the relocated fingerprint reader. While the specifics of the mod are not openly shared, the project serves as an inspiration for those looking to customize their laptops. For users interested in expanding USB connectivity within their laptops, solutions like incorporating a tiny USB hub can offer additional flexibility.

Stein’s endeavor highlights the ingenuity and technical skill required to implement hardware modifications, showcasing the possibilities for enhancing the functionality of existing devices. The project also sparks discussions among tech enthusiasts about the need for internal USB ports in modern laptops and the potential for further customization.