In the previous post, we discussed how to install Linux (PostmarketOS) on an Android phone and use Docker on it. Now, we’ll take it a step further and convert your Android phone into a batteryless home server. This setup ensures you never have to worry about charging it regularly or leaving it plugged in with the battery which is dangerous due to potential battery swelling or overheating.
We learned in the last post how to run docker on the phone with the battery in it and use it as a home server. However, keeping a lithium battery connected to a constant charge is not ideal and can reduce battery life or even pose safety risks. By removing the battery and powering the device directly via USB, you can safely run your home server 24/7 without these concerns.
Working with lithium batteries is risky. If mishandled, they can explode or catch fire.
Before starting this project, keep these safety precautions in mind:
Ensure the battery is fully discharged to 0% before removal to minimize risks.
Handle the battery carefully to avoid punctures or damage.
Attempt this modification only if you are confident in your technical skills.
Proceed at your own risk. We strongly discourage tampering with batteries without professional knowledge and safety measures.
I am not responsible for any damage that may happen to you, anyone nearby, or any material. I am simply sharing my experience. Please do your research and gather information before doing anything potentially dangerous with batteries, your phone, or anything involved.
The first step is to carefully remove the battery from your OnePlus 6T. Use mobile opening tools to access the internal components. The battery has a small circuit board on top, known as the Battery Management System (BMS). Do not discard this circuit! It is critical for simulating a functional battery to the phone.
Carefully separate the BMS from the battery.
Ensure no damage to the circuit board during removal.
To power the phone without a battery, you’ll need to solder a simple circuit using the MUR460 diode and the USB-C cable. Credit for the battery removal and power circuit method goes to the brilliant GreatScott YouTube channel
Cut the USB-C cable and strip the wires.
Follow the circuit diagram below to connect the USB-C wires to the BMS via the diode. The diode ensures current flows in the correct direction, protecting the device from power surges.
Connect the circuit, which already has the wires attached, to the phone, and then connect the USB-C cable to the phone.
Once the connections are complete, test the setup by powering on the phone. If everything works, use the hot glue gun to glue the components securely in place. This step is optional but recommended to prevent wires from disconnecting or components from shifting during use.
I opted to attach all the components neatly to the back of the phone, keeping it compact and efficient for a server setup.
With PostmarketOS running, you can now configure the phone as a home server. Install Docker and deploy any server applications you need, such as a web server, a book media server, or even a personal cloud solution (like Nextcloud).
This batteryless home server is an excellent way to repurpose an old Android phone. The OnePlus 6T, with its robust hardware and compatibility with PostmarketOS, is ideal for this project. Remember, safety is paramount when working with batteries, and you should always proceed cautiously.
Have fun experimenting!
