You can finally add rechargeable batteries to your Windows Mixed Reality controllers
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There a lot of great things about Windows Mixed Reality, but the batteries in the controllers aren’t one of them. Thanks to the wonder of 3D printing, and the ingenuity of one Thingiverse user named Nagorak, we now have a solution in the form of a Micro-USB rechargeable battery and a 3D printed backplate. This guide will take you through the steps you need to get there.
Products used in this guide
A word of caution
Before we go any further, we have to note that this involves using your controllers in a way that they weren’t originally intended, so there is a chance of damage. From what I’ve seen, there are no reports of anything going wrong, but you’re still messing with electrics, so be warned! Of course, we take no responsibility if you damage your controller — it’s all on you.
Step by Step
And there we have it. Nagarok tells us the battery lasts around 8.5 hours, which is less than you would get from the AA batteries you would typically use, but as long as you keep them charged, this won’t be an issue. I wouldn’t recommend trying to play with the controllers plugged in, however. That sounds like it would be a disaster.
Our top equipment picks
These are the mandatory or core equipment selections. Optional or ancillary equipment will follow.
A simple AA sized Micro-USB chargeable battery
This battery is recommended by the creator of this mod, Nagorak. It doesn’t come with a Micro-USB lead, so you need to own one or purchase it separately
This rechargeable battery matches the power output and is shaped to fit in the Windows Mixed Controller correctly. Make sure you get the model numbered 14500UR75, as an incorrect purchase could wreck your controller.
Needed only to complete the connection
This battery is just to fill in a blank space. The creator of the mod said that you could use one of these, a screw, or some tinfoil, but I think we can all agree that these are the safest route.
Additional Equipment
These are not required as you may have them already, but if you don’t, these extras will help you with the mod.
10ft Micro-USC cable - 2 pack($8 at Amazon)
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The battery you use in this modification doesn’t come with the need cables, so this is a strong set for you to use.
Anker Elite adapter($9 at Amazon)
The Anker Elite is my go-to wall adapter. It’s perfect for charging your two modified controllers and just about anything else you want to charge.
James built his first PC when he was 13 and has never looked back. He can be found on Windows Central, usually in the corner where all the 3D printers are, or huddled around the Xbox playing the latest games.
