Breathing New Life into Forgotten E-Readers
When a maker known as [spiritplumber] received a box of outdated Nook Simple Touch devices, he didn't see e-waste—he saw opportunity. Rather than letting the old e-readers gather dust, he designed a clever solar-powered case that not only charges the device under sunlight but also works under artificial lighting. This hack merges two perfect matches: the Nook's sunlight-readable e-ink screen and a solar panel that keeps its battery topped off. The result is a sustainable, portable reading companion that defies obsolescence.
The Solar Case Design
The case itself is 3D printed and incorporates two solar panels on the back. According to [spiritplumber], the recommended charger module is any TP4056-based unit, which connects to the device's battery test points rather than its 5V supply. While connecting to the 5V supply won't damage the hardware, it triggers a persistent "plugged in" state that keeps the Wi-Fi radio active—a significant drain when charging from the small panels. By tapping the battery directly, the Nook remains in a normal charging mode, conserving precious milliwatts.
Indoor Performance
The panels are sized to provide a trickle charge under artificial light, offering a slow but steady top-up for indoor use. This feature makes the case practical for daily reading, as users can leave the device under a desk lamp and slowly recover battery capacity. While not fast, it eliminates the need for a dedicated charger and reduces reliance on grid power.
Open Source for Customization
[spiritplumber] released the design as open source, including SketchUp source files and exported .STL files. This allows other makers to adapt the case for different e-reader models or modify the panel size and placement. The rooting guide provided also enables deeper software modifications, turning the Nook into a multi-purpose gadget.
Rooting the Nook Simple Touch
For those who want to extend functionality beyond reading, [spiritplumber] includes a step-by-step guide to root the Nook Simple Touch. This unlocks the Android-based operating system, allowing installation of alternative launchers, custom apps, or even repurposing the device as a smart home control panel or a dedicated note-taking tool. The guide is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginners in the rooting community.
Beyond the Nook: A Greener Philosophy
This solar case isn't the first time [spiritplumber] has combined technology with environmental thinking. His previous project involved improving quadcopter efficiency with a winged design, showing a consistent interest in energy-conscious innovation. The Nook hack follows that same thread—reducing electronic waste by giving aging hardware a new lease on life through renewable energy.
While we've seen the Nook Simple Touch used in creative ways before, such as being turned into a glider flight computer, the solar case marks a first for this device on this platform. It's a practical, stylish, and sustainable solution that proves old gadgets can still shine—literally—under the sun.
Conclusion
[spiritplumber]'s project demonstrates that with a little creativity and open-source collaboration, outdated e-readers can become self-sufficient devices. The combination of a sunlight-readable screen and a solar charging case makes the Nook Simple Touch an ideal candidate for off-grid use or simply for reducing daily energy consumption. Whether you're an avid reader, a hacker, or an environmental enthusiast, this build offers a blueprint for turning e-waste into a useful tool.