yashsingh1/xdaforums huggingface dataset:
[G Tablet Accessories] bnovak:
well, after a little digging around on the internet and verifying some of the other posts in this thread, it looks like the G-Tab uses a STANDARD PDMI connector (unlike the galaxy which uses a custom connector.)

the good news and the bad news.

Good - have the complete pin out now, so I know what to probe on the dock side (Steve, keep me posted on a dock, or if you have them, I can just buy one.) It also helps to have this as now I can just physically look at the dock and figure out the traces and decompile it that way.

Good #1a - it "looks" like it's just a standard PDMI cable connector, and the math seems to work out as well. 2.5mm height, 22mm width. Without absolute mechanical drawings I'd say it's 80%+ probably

Good #2 - in theory, we can charge our devices via USB if the SOURCE is high current. (but I need to figure out if the internal charging circuit is 5V or 12V....)

Good #3 - PDMI supports CEC, so a home theater remote control should control the G-Tab from afar, or your TV can talk to it bi-directionally.

Good #4 - PDMI also supports analog AUDIO output, so if you just want a streaming audio connection to a stereo or something similar, it should be possible.

Good #5 - PDMI is USB3.0 compliant, so when that spec (finally) gets solidified, we might have an even FASTER cable connection.

Bad - it's a brand spankin' new spec as of December 2010, so getting mass produced cables is a PITA. I found a supplier in Taiwan that will ship me 1000 PDMI to HDMI cables though, so if anyone is interested in a massive group buy (or steve, you think you can put them on the shelf?) we can get them. I will order a sample and verify that it works.

Bad #2 - there's no analog VGA / Component / Composite output on PDMI

Bad #3 - PDMI is display port 1.1a not real HDMI compliant. The silver lining here is that it supports higher resolutions (up to 3840x2160) but the Tegra chip doesn't, so we are only going to get max 1920x1080 (1080p)

Bad #4 - Samsung also uses PDMI, but they have a quasi-custom connector. I will see if it is electro-mechanically the same, but the connector itself might need some modding.

Bad #5 - PDMI DOES NOT SUPPORT ETHERNET! This may be why it's such a PITA to get the network connection to work.

My best guess is that one of the chips on the dock itself is a 802.E to USB2.0 converter. Probably one of the chips on the dock itself is an SMSC LAN9510 Ethernet to USB hub. That would give the extra USB input as well as get it's own MAC address. (Steve or someone else, can you verify that there is a MAC address sticker on the dock itself?)

If this is the case, then the dock actually get's it's own MAC and then the tablet has to mask itself.

more to come when I'm not on the clock. This gives me a new project to take my mind off 12VDC/200amp power supply designs for a couple minutes :D
[G Tablet Accessories] kashmir581:
iGo Netbook Adapter Tip for Viewsonic G-Tablet

Old post but didn't see an answer to it in the thread so I thought I'd toss this in to help. I have the iGo Netbook Adapter (bought cheap from buy.com). You need tip 212 for the Viewsonic G-Tab.
[G Tablet Accessories] it2steve:
Remember, there is a thread about that tip putting out 19v and the gTab chargers putting out 12v. Personally I have used the iGo for a couple months now with no issues (yet).

I had a member email me yesterday stating that he found the correct voltage on another tip (416 or something) but the connector didn't fit. He was able to slice the tips open and switch them out so the had the 212 'tip' with the correct voltage base.

I asked him to post pics as it seems like a GREAT mod.
[G Tablet Accessories] twiceover:
Steve...

I thought I remember reading a post of yours where you said you had an app that would basically turn the G-TAB into a picture frame when you set it on the dock. Do you have any more info on that... Or maybe that wasn't you?

-Dan
[G Tablet Accessories] it2steve:
Yep... there's an app for that! It's called PhotoFrame
[G Tablet Accessories] twiceover:
Thanks... Is it automatic when you put it in the dock, or do I need to hit a button or something...

Ack... SDCard2 is not an optional folder... :(
[G Tablet Accessories] it2steve:
I'm not 100% certain about the dock but I would imagine so. I have mine set to run when it gets plugged in. There's plenty of preferences you can set.
[G Tablet Accessories] it2steve:
POST REMOVED [duplicate] sorry :(
[G Tablet Accessories] dismbrmn:
dock received

Bought a doc from Steve. Fast fast shipping. Got here before my woot!

Thanks Steve!

Working on getting Ethernet to work with grab running tntl 4.4
[G Tablet Accessories] buzzzard:
I am eyeballing the dock for my Gpad as a replacement for my oversized wire book stand.

I am wondering how stable\secure the tab is on the dock. Any opinions for those who have bought one?
[G Tablet Accessories] captainharlockus:
I would like to get one of the docks and maybe the power adapter and screen cover, I found the items on your site, but was wondering about the xda price reduction you mentioned in the thread and how to get it. I have set up an account at your site and checked the box for the newsletter, how often does it come out. I am hoping to order before you run out again.

Thanks for your time in making these available and all the helpful information you are providing.
[G Tablet Accessories] tkchan007:
Looking at a cable route/option, if this connector really is the PDMI, then a straight cable won't be possible since it'll have to go through some sort of Display Port to HDMI conversion. Maybe a cable with a built in Display Port converter in there somewhere.

Also, find out that it appears the Dell Streak also is using a similar connection - linuxslate.com/#Dell_Streak_PDMI_Pinout (sorry I never posted before so cannot post a direct link). Anyone that has a Dell Streak and a gTab can compare the 2 perhaps?
[G Tablet Accessories] bnovak:
Again, you can do display port to HDMI with a passive crossover cable.....

BUT!!!....it's only good for connecting to a monitor. I've neglected to mention the fact in my other posts that display port DOES NOT HAVE AUDIO.
[G Tablet Accessories] captainharlockus:
I am getting the newsletters now and have the info for the discount, thanks. Though unfortunately I did not get the first newsletter until you had run out of docks again, but I saw you have more on the way, so I will patiently wait. Thanks it2steve for all you are doing.
[G Tablet Accessories] kd4crs:
Missed out this time

I would like to get one of these as well but missed them this time. Hopefully I will get some notice when the next batch comes in.
[G Tablet Accessories] dhayden:
I want one too. How do I go about getting one. Thanks for all you are doing. I believe all the wooters (10000 in 24 hours) are going to eventually want docks. Dan
[G Tablet Accessories] jhreid1969:
I'm not a Wooter, but would be interested in getting a dock also.
[G Tablet Accessories] acomiskey:
When does the lan port activate?

Having issues with it and Calkulin/Clemsyn. It works if I boot the tablet while docked, but if I remove it and put it back the lan doesn't work.
[G Tablet Accessories] blackjaguar:
The PDMI specifications I have say that the DisplayPort connection within PDMI supports 8-channel audio. This is also consistent with the DisplayPort 1.1a specs. I'm ordering a dock now to check it out, but I'm willing to bet that you are correct about the DP lines in the dock connector not carrying the audio. The Tegra 2 outputs HDMI, not DP, and the passive HDMI to DP converter loses the audio stream. I'm guessing Viewsonic didn't go to the work of adding audio into the conversion process before it reaches the docking connector. I couldn't read any part numbers on the breakdown pictures that were posted earlier, so when mine arrives I'll try to post the part numbers of the chips and what pins are going where.
[G Tablet Accessories] slsmag:
What use is the HDMI port on the dock if...

Ok, maybe I'm a bit slow on the uptake here, but of what possible use is the HDMI connection if it does not carry audio

and

the audio-out/headphone is shut-off when the HDMI port is in use (as reported by someone earlier in this thread)?

If the above reports are accurate (and there's no reason to believe they aren't), then what's it good for? Certainly not web browsing (YouTube videos without sound?). Not to send videos or movies to the big screen (unless they're silent films). Not for gaming.

My TV accepts USB thumb/external drives to display photos (and that's a hell of a lot more convenient than hooking up the Gtablet in a dock). I have a Viewsonic VMP75 connected via HDMI to my TV that cost me all of $59 which will browse the web and play my NetFlix que or connect to ShoutCast...

So, what's the point of the HDMI connection on the dock for the Gtablet?

Seems like an awfully expensive charging stand.

- michael
[G Tablet Accessories] blackjaguar:
Well, my dock is arriving later this week, so right now I'm just going off of what I'm reading here. As roebeet said, the HDMI port on the dock DOES have audio. The discussion is about whether or not it is possible to make a passive adapter that just plugs into the docking port on the tablet and gives you HDMI out.
[G Tablet Accessories] slsmag:
I hope that Roebeet is right, but more people here have reported no sound on the HDMI port. This my question about the usefulness of the dock. So, (forgive me here - I'm in a grumpy mood) you don't have a dock or any first-hand experience, but are reporting that the HDMI does have sound. That appears to be wishful thinking rather than helpful information...

The TOPIC here (look up) is a review of the dock. I too am interested in an HDMI cable for the Gtablet... please, start a new topic (I for one would follow it) - but please don't flame me for asking an on-topic question in an appropriately titled thread.

PS... I look forward to hearing about your experience with the dock next week!
[G Tablet Accessories] malenhead:
HDMI Sound

I have had a dock for both of my Gtabs since they first came out. Ordered them from China. They have worked perfectly and sound has not been an issue. I have saved several AVI's and played them via HDMI and episodes of Rev3 shows. No problems with sound. I have been using every version of TNT Lite to date. Currently on the 0.92 TwoTaps.
[G Tablet Accessories] slsmag:
Thank you! That's very good to hear (no pun intended).

I know it sounds silly, but the sound level (gain) on my Viewsonic VMP75 HDMI is extremely low and requires me to set the device volume to the max and still turn up the volume on the TV to a veryhigh level, so...

I wonder if those who are reporting no sound have tried turning up the volume on their HDMI connected device to full level.

One user in this thread reported that he had no headphone sound when the HDMI was connected. Can you confirm whether or not audio is simultaneously delivered to both the HDMI (when connected) AND the headphone/mic port?

Thanks,

- michael
[G Tablet Accessories] JackAbramoff:
HDMI does have sound

I've had the dock for a few weeks now (Steve rocks when his suppliers don't let him down), and it worked the first time, and has worked every time. Sound is present, volume is the same as my cable box. I've been running Vegan 5.1 since day one, and the dock has worked since the day I got it.

I don't know what problems other people are running into, but I can guarantee there is an audio stream on the HDMI cable. I suppose it's possible that the audio stream is added in by the dock, which might be why it requires power, but I strongly suspect it's native. Why would an engineer do it any other way?

I'm an EE, and when I have some time free (hah) I intend to open up my dock and poke around a little. I'll be careful since I don't want to have to buy another one, but even just compiling a list of part numbers would be illustrative. I haven't researched the differences/compatibilities between HDMI and PDMI, but I understand they're both LVDS technologies and I'm guessing are pretty similar with maybe some different feature sets (like I bet PDMI has the USB port as a feature that HDMI isn't interested in).

I can't believe it's not possible to make an unpowered simple HDMI cable for this thing, which would be much better to take on the road than the dock and a spare power supply.
[G Tablet Accessories] slsmag:
That's what I (and others) have been thinking too.

Thanks for all of the great info. I look forward to hearing about what more you learn...

- michael
[G Tablet Accessories] blackjaguar:
I'm starting to wonder if Viewsonic got really lazy and is just outputting the HDMI signal directly from the Tegra 2 through the pins in the docking connector that are reserved for the DisplayPort signal. I'll try to check it out at work later this week. That would explain the sound output and would make the HDMI cable trivial if someone could get a hold of PDMI connectors.

BTW: This looks promising:

http://www.bizlinktech.com/PDMI.html
[G Tablet Accessories] slsmag:
Viewsonic?

Isn't this just a Malata dock packaged for the Viewsonic GTablet (which itself is just a generic android tablet)?

- michael
[G Tablet Accessories] blackjaguar:
I've been talking about the docking connector on the tablet itself. Not the dock. That applies to my earlier comments as well. Since Malata is the manufacturer of the tablet too, I suppose I should shift my accusation of laziness onto them ;). The dock connector may or may not be one of the new PDMI connectors. If it is PDMI, then its supposed to contain pins that carry a DisplayPort signal for video out. Thats what bnovak was talking about and thats where the talk of no sound came from. There's two types of DisplayPort. The most common one found on computer video cards is called Dual-Mode. Essentially, when it detects that you've plugged in a DVI or HDMI adapter into it, it outputs the correct signal type and voltage for that connection type. That lets you use a simple cable to convert the signal. The other type just outputs DisplayPort signal, and needs circuitry to convert it to anything else.

The processor in the G Tablet outputs HDMI, not DP. So the question is, did Malata include a chip in the tablet that transforms the HDMI out from the chipset into DP for the docking connection? If they did, then it probably doesn't support Dual-Mode and circuitry would be required to make an HDMI out cable. What I was trying to say is I think Malata just reused the PDMI connector to connect to their dock, and since they only planned for it to work with their dock, they just took the HDMI out off of the tablet chipset and ran it out to the docking port through the pins that should be carrying a DisplayPort signal instead. That would let them connect those pins directly to the HDMI port on the dock itself. Its the simplest and cheapest solution, it just means that the docking port doesn't conform to the PDMI specs exactly. It would also mean that all that's needed for an HDMI cable more or less is to use a crossover cable. Looking at the pictures of the internal dock, the only two chips I see are a TI-ICOM chip that provides USB to Ethernet, and a 2048 bit EEPROM from Atmel. There's nothing to convert any signals to HDMI, so its looking good there.

Check out this website:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/52385837/48/DisplayPort-in-ANSI-CEA-2017-A

Page 73 explains PDMI, and the first few sections explain DisplayPort and how it relates to HDMI. Oh, and don't get too excited when you see USB 3.0 in the PDMI specs. If Malata didn't put in full DisplayPort compatibility, I don't think there's any way that dock connector actually has USB 3.0.
[G Tablet Accessories] it2steve:
Rumor is that an 'official' Malata HDMI cable is releasing tomorrow! Needless to say, I'm working on getting one for 'review' :)
[G Tablet Accessories] wasserkapf:
I have two g-tablets. One is stock, only updated with OTA updates. When the HDMI cable is hooked up via the dock (before booting), audio only comes out of the tablet, not the TV it is hooked to.

The other tablet (Woot) Has TNT Lite 4.4.0 on it. The audio also only comes out of the tablet when hooked up to my TV via the dock HDMI.

I am using the same cable that I hook up my nVidia ION system, running MythTV. That has no problem sending audio over HDMI to my TV.

The problem is either the tablet or the version of Android (or maybe the dock).

Those having success with sending audio over the HDMI cable, please report on which firmware you are using.
[G Tablet Accessories] LordCthulu:
Its tomorrow :D
[G Tablet Accessories] SoCal2:
I need dock, cable anything I can buy lol

Is there a link to purchase?

Thanks :)
[G Tablet Accessories] blackjaguar:
That Malata cable will be great. Beware of generic PDMI to HDMI cables though, I don't think they will work. I just went over to Slackers Radio and checked out their G2 radio. It has a PDMI port so I wanted to check it against the G Tablet. It doesn't match. Both connectors are the same width, and the internal pins look identical. The G2 radio's PDMI port though is thicker and slightly more squared off and wouldn't mate with the G Tablet. Before you ask, we were trying a bare plug not the dock, so there was nothing in the way of the connector. If someone was able to get a sample of a PDMI to HDMI cable, I'd love to know if they could get it to work.
[G Tablet Accessories] it2steve:
Rumor Mill: Malata is releasing an HDMI Cable... I have one on the way for testing / review with the gTab
[G Tablet Accessories] blackjaguar:
Thanks it2steve for the fast shipping. Took two days for my dock to arrive. HDMI out worked perfectly, it mirrored the display automatically on stock TnT. The HDMI had audio as well.

BTW: USPS destroyed the packaging, it had 3 holes and was pretty flattened. Even the Zpad box was smashed a bit, but the dock is fine.
[G Tablet Accessories] WebScud:
Can you use an USB A to A (male to male) cable to hook the dock up to a PC?
[G Tablet Accessories] HTung:
Great! Please update your review as soon as you can.

By the way, do you offer shipping to Vietnam?
[G Tablet Accessories] pyro530:
Just got mine last week and I love it!

Any update on the HDMI cable Steve?
[G Tablet Accessories] pgonza02:
DOA Dock?

I just received this dock:

http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/100857733.html

and I think it's DOA.

I don't think there is any special procedure to at least get it to charge the tablet. I put the tablet in the dock, connected the power cord to the dock, and nothing happened.

Strangely, it feels like there are loose parts inside.

I have contacted the seller and his first reply was:

"I'm sorry to hear that,piease try more you follow the instructions.We all are to undergo a rigorous inspection before leaving the factory, pls believe that the quality of our products

thanks"

Any suggestions?

Thanks.
[G Tablet Accessories] pyro530:
So the tablet doesn't show the red charging light when you have it in the Dock?

Might just be DOA... My guess would be it was damaged in transit though, not for any manufacturing issues.
[G Tablet Accessories] pgonza02:
Yup, no charging light or icon.

I think it was damaged as well, they shipped the dock box (which has no padding inside) in a plastic envelop so anything could have happened from China here.
[G Tablet Accessories] it2steve:
Go the HDMI cable and cant' get it to work. Seems it was made for the t8 and not the ZPAD so something must be different. I was told that other cabled are being worked on and hopefully I can get one in that works to get a review up!
[G Tablet Accessories] twiceover:
I have a dock for sale over in the market if anyone is looking. PM me.
[G Tablet Accessories] Fitzwilly:
got my dock today, thanks for the amazingly fast shipping
[G Tablet Accessories] Reggie777:
Chargers...

it2steve,

Any idea when the chargers might be in stock? Thanks.
[G Tablet Accessories] californiarailroader:
I would like to know that as well.
[G Tablet Accessories] dhayden:
Got me a dock and really love it....

Ok! i couldn't wait and bought me a dock....all i can say is i love it....have the hdmi connected to my 32 inch toshiba tv in the bedroom and broadcasting on hdmi 2...my gateway tower 3i is broadcasting on hdmi 1. I have the solar system with the asteroid belt live wall paper running and it is really beautiful on the tv. the dock is well worth it in my opinion. a definite must have. had to buy an extra ac adapter for it. i use the original in my bag when i take my gtab with me. just in case, but with screen brightness at 65%...this thing rocks at 10 hours for me. WOW! Really beats my old TC1100 tablet (heavy and 2-3 hours bat life) or my old dell X50V pda. I just hope the prices really drop this x-mas and I will buy 5 more for the family. With the capacitive touch screen and android...this has become my baby. Much more personal and changeable than old computers I have owned. I plugged in a USB keyboard into the dock and boom...it works too. Just need to find a way to get my 500GB hitachi portable hd to be seen by the gtab.(movies and music and study notes etc) always something new to learn and experiment with....i really love this baby...need a nice light colored leather case for it. Any suggestions????
[G Tablet Accessories] bebopblues:
Can someone with this dock please measure and give me the exact dimensions for A-F in the image below?

Thank you.
[G Tablet Accessories] it2steve:
I don't know about leather but I have a 'hybrid' case that I am about to get to do a review on. I'm sorry for the delay but it's been daddy/daughter weekend and that takes priority.

Its supposed to be available in two colors, light brown and dark gray (almost black??)

I've only looked for a second but its a cross between a p3 and a m2... same angles as the p3 but proper cuts like the m2. The material; I can't explain it, it almost feels like a soft suede, its' pretty sharp. I'll get pics and a review up tomorrow in hopes that we can see something like this in the states soon :)
[G Tablet Accessories] californiarailroader:
Delete this post.
[G Tablet Accessories] californiarailroader:
Is there any update on getting the LAN on this working with VeganTab GingerEdition?
[G Tablet Accessories] californiarailroader:
Does anybody have info on this? It's kinda quiet in here, where'd everybody go? ;)
[G Tablet Accessories] californiarailroader:
Like, Boo man :D
[G Tablet Accessories] Oozura:
Not sure if this has been posted already. Sorry if it has.

I found recently that video out works via a hdmi to dvi adapter. And the video out wotks without power as well. I have got a sweet home theater projector setup now with my gtablet at the center.

Thanks Steve!
[G Tablet Accessories] lanegd01:
A=11.8 cm

B= 7 cm

C= 3CM

D= 7 cm

E= 1.5 cm

F= 2 cm
[G Tablet Accessories] lanegd01:
Nope doesn't work on mine

Running bigideas1222 on Malaga
[G Tablet Accessories] pyro530:
O rly?

You have an actual T2? Are you in the USA.

Sorry to get OT.
[G Tablet Accessories] lanegd01:
Yes it is t2 3G GPS

I am in Oz

Bought from dhgate
[G Tablet Accessories] revlis8989:
i use vegan rc7 ,how do I get wired ethernet

thanks
[G Tablet Accessories] californiarailroader:
Ditto on that from me. I've tried everything and while the lights will light up in back, the router isn't even seeing it.
[G Tablet Accessories] revlis8989:
i can not connect wired ethernet with dock,i use VEGAn-TAB GingerEdition STABLE RC1,please tell me how to do it，thanks
[G Tablet Accessories] revlis8989:
does the dock can work with VEGAn-TAB GingerEdition STABLE RC1,i try it,but i can not connect wired ethernet
[G Tablet Accessories] pyro530:
Mike, have you tried turning the tablet completely off, then booting it while on the dock?
[G Tablet Accessories] californiarailroader:
Yeah, no go on that either, no matter what I try the network just won't see it. I think it may have to do with this VEGAn-TAB GingerEdition RC1 ROM I'm running, though I don't know for sure.
[G Tablet Accessories] pyro530:
Try one of the ROM's based off the 1.2 branch. You can find them over at that "other" site.