Sata connector plug.
(Mouser.com Part #538-67491-0020)
Test fitting SATA connector into the Mini interconnect board. Have to shave off a bit of the plastic connector to fit the interconnect board. (modify plug, not interconnect board)
Another view of Sata connector/Mini Interconnect board.
Running the rounded eSata cable through the Kensington security lock opening. No pics of the rounding of the eSata cable. But, It's very easy - there are only 7 wires total. 3 ground, and 4 signal cables. Strip original covering off Sata cable, re-organize into something that will fit through the security lock opening when covered in heatshrink.
Rounded Sata Cable through the security lock opening. Obviously the Sata connector which will plug into the Interconnect board doesn't fit through the security lock opening, so I have to solder that connector on at this point.
Routing of the rounded sata cable to the interconnect board. The soldered on Sata connector has been soldered on and covered in hot-glue to prevent shorts. Used tiny bit of hot glue to secure Sata connector to interconnect board.
Another view of the rounded eSata cable routed through the security lock opening.
And yet another view of path taken from outside the case to the interconnect board.
Test setup. eSata cable connects Mini to the 3.5inch hard disc directly.
Disk Utility found the drive. Created a single partition, and installed OS X.
Hacking up the MiniStack enclosure. Removed the corner ventilation panel to better fit in the eSata cable.
Another view of fitting the eSata connector in the MiniStack.
There is not enough room inside the Ministack to fit a full size Sata connector (bottom pic), so I had to hack up the connector to make it shorter, and exit at a 90degree angle. Hot glue once again covers the exposed wire.
Initial Sata cable routing. Possible TODO: shorten the Sata cable and solder on a new Sata plug to reduce excess wire in the case.
Another shot of the initial cable routing.
Cable origami.
Reassmbled for testing.
Closeup of the external eSata. Used hobby knife to shave down the excess connector to fit into the security lock opening. Also use a tiny bit of "shoe goo" to secure the eSata connector in place. The stuff holds really well, and comes off clean.
Had to bend the metal portion of what becomes security lock port when the mini is put back together. Since the goal is to have this process as reversable as possible, I did not want to just cut the tab off. Covered bent tab with electrical tape, just in case it come in contact with the sound board cable or anything else when the case is closed.
Finished view 1.
Finished view 2.
All cables installed. TODO: find short eSata cable. (6in-1ft. would be great
Finished. Results: Much faster, much more capacity than the stock or any replacement 2.5inch drive. Easily reversible to stock configuration if needed.