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Mobile C-deck

Modular Clamshell Palmtop

sergiySergiy
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A DIY portable cyberdeck built from a smartphone, paired with a Bluetooth keyboard and enclosed in a custom 3D-printed clamshell case. This compact setup offers a highly portable, low-cost solution for general-purpose computing. The clamshell form factor enables comfortable typing and efficient mobile workflow, turning a smartphone into a practical pocket-sized command terminal for on-the-go technical tasks.

The Idea

This project converts a smartphone into a clamshell style palmtop, paired with a Bluetooth keyboard and enclosed in a custom 3D printed case. The result is a compact, low cost portable device ideal for field work, diagnostics, and general purpose computing.

I’ve always been a fan of clamshell palmtops. This fascination started years ago when I worked as a network field engineer. Back then, I used a NEC MobilePro 900 to configure and troubleshoot network equipment on site. I really liked how practical and easy to use that form factor was.

By repurposing a smartphone and combining it with a folding Bluetooth keyboard, this project gives it a second life as a functional palmtop.

The original version of the project was created to convert a Google Pixel 3 XL running NetHunter into a portable penetration testing device. However, it soon became clear that the same approach could appeal to owners of other devices as well. A compact device with a physical QWERTY keyboard can be useful for a wide range of users, including those not involved in security or penetration testing, offering a practical tool for mobile productivity tasks such as writing or communicating on the go.

Version 3.0.0 - Modular

Modular C‑Deck builds on the original design with a fully modular design. It features a replaceable phone insert, making it easy to adapt the clamshell case to different devices.

Version 2.2.0 - PETG

This is the updated device's design to make it more suitable for printing with PETG filament. It also has the better lock slider design to fix the issue of sliders falling out while the device is open.

Version 2.1.0

This is the latest, and probably the final, version of this case. I’ve moved the phone to the center of the lid, removed the parts of the case that were meant for securing cables and external cards with plastic ties, and modified the upper panel design

Version 2.0.1

The second version of this device has fewer 3D-printed parts and are much easier to assemble. I've tried to preserve the device’s attractive appearance, even with fewer options for using different filament colors.

Version 1.0.0

The first version of this device was created with a rugged design in mind. It appears that this design could lead to a more sophisticated assembly. While it is nice to be able to make the device in two colors with a pretty attractive appearance, a less complex assembly will be prioritized in the next version.

Download links

All versions' 3D models can be downloaded by the links below.

Pixel 3 XL Clamshell Palmtop - NetHunter C-deck v1.0.0

Pixel 3 XL Clamshell Palmtop - NetHunter C-deck v2.0.1

Pixel 3 XL Clamshell Palmtop - NetHunter C-deck v2.1.0

Pixel 3 XL Clamshell Palmtop - NetHunter C-deck v2.2.0 PETG

Modular C-Deck v3.0.0 - Clamshell Palmtop

Modular C‑Deck v3.0.0 - Phone Case Insert

  • Created and Uploaded Pixel 3a XL Case Insert

    Sergiy • 08/28/2025 at 12:53 • 0 comments

    Created and Uploaded Pixel 3a XL Case Insert for Modular C-Deck  to  Printables

  • Two steps back...

    Sergiy • 08/14/2025 at 09:16 • 0 comments

    I took two steps back and created a case that needs to be assembled with glue, and it’s for the Pixel 3XL only. I had to leverage the Pixel 3XL’s thin design to make a really slim case, and I always wanted to print at least one version in Cyberpunk 2077 game colors. Here it is...

  • Uploaded v3.1.0 and a few smartphones' case inserts

    Sergiy • 07/30/2025 at 08:46 • 0 comments

    Uploaded v3.1.0, which supports smartphones up to 13 mm thick and  case inserts for the Poco 3, Pixel 7, and Pixel 9 Pro XL, in addition to the existing case insert for the Pixel 3 XL. All files are available for download on Printables.

  • Started working on a new modular version for phones up to 13 mm thick

    Sergiy • 07/17/2025 at 18:59 • 0 comments

    I completely got fooled by the official specs from smartphone manufacturers claiming their new phones are really thin, around 8 or 9 millimeters. But that only refers to the body of the phone. In reality, the camera bump adds another 2 or 3 millimeters, so the actual thickness is more like 10 to 12 millimeters. It looks like the current design is not universal enough to accommodate popular modern models.

  • Completed Modular Version 3.0.0

    Sergiy • 07/15/2025 at 16:16 • 0 comments

    I've finished modeling and assembling a new modular design for the C‑Deck. It's no longer the Pixel 3 XL C‑Deck, as it can now fit any smartphone up to 10 mm thick.

  • Completed printing and assembly for v2.2.0

    Sergiy • 06/21/2025 at 13:07 • 0 comments

    I've printed and assembled version 2.2.0 of the case using PETG. It can't be captured in a photo, but the device feels much nicer to the touch, and the resulting print is significantly more dimensionally accurate.

  • Design update v2.2.0 - PETG

    Sergiy • 06/15/2025 at 15:31 • 0 comments

    I've updated the device design to make it more suitable for printing with PETG filament. In short, I made all parts of the case thicker to improve its sturdiness. I've also updated the lock slider design to fix the issue of sliders falling out while the device is open.

  • Completed printing and assembly for v2.1.0

    Sergiy • 06/05/2025 at 19:11 • 0 comments

    I've printed and assembled version 2.1.0 of the case. It needs Velcro ties at least 200 mm long now. I really like how it looks.

  • Design update v2.1.0

    Sergiy • 06/04/2025 at 08:29 • 0 comments

    After a few days of testing, I decided the OTG cable doesn’t need to stay connected all the time, so there’s no reason to hide its connector deep in the case. I also dropped the idea of using cable ties, which made the circular holes (and really the whole original panel design) unnecessary. Built a new  version of the case.

  • Completed printing and assembly of Version 2

    Sergiy • 05/24/2025 at 17:37 • 0 comments

    Just finished printing and putting together Model V2. It turned out a bit more work than expected. I had to do quite a bit of sanding and filing to get the parts to fit right. I tweaked the design and made a 2.0.1 version to fix the worst of it, but it still needs some cleanup after printing.

View all 13 project logs

  • 1
    Prerequisites

    Flash Stock Android 12

    Enable Developer Mode & USB Debugging 

    • Go to Settings > About phone
    • Tap Build number 7 times to enable Developer Mode
    • Go to Settings > System > Developer options
    • Enable OEM unlocking and USB debugging

    Unlock the Bootloader

    • Go to Settings > System > Developer options
    • Enable OEM unlocking
    • Confirm the prompt to unlock the bootloader
  • 2
    Download Required Files

    Download the following files to your PC:

  • 3
    Installation

     Reboot into Bootloader

    adb reboot bootloader

    Boot TWRP Recovery

    fastboot boot twrp-3.7.0_12-0-crosshatch.img

    Push Installation Files to the Device

    adb push twrp-installer-3.7.0_12-0-crosshatch.zip /sdcard
adb push magisk28.1.zip /sdcard
adb push Alynx-12-nethunter-bluecross.zip /sdcard
adb push Wireless_firmware.zip /sdcard

    Install Files via TWRP (in this order)

    • twrp-installer-3.7.0_12-0-crosshatch.zip
    • magisk28.1.zip 
    • Alynx-12-nethunter-bluecross.zip
    • Wireless_firmware.zip

    Use TWRP > Install for each zip file.

    Reboot to System

    Once installation is complete, go back to TWRP > Reboot > System

    Set Up Magisk

    • Open the Magisk app 
    • Follow on-screen instructions to finish setup
    • Reboot the phone if prompted

    Install Kali NetHunter Module

    • Copy the NetHunter archive to your device using file transfer.

    • Open Magisk > Modules

    • Tap Install from Storage and select the NetHunter zip archive

    • Reboot after installation

View all 3 instructions

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Discussions

Christopher Gilbert wrote 07/05/2025 at 12:42 • point

I'm interested in remixing this to fit my device (Pixel 9 Pro Fold). Is there a possibility that the CAD could be released.  Or perhaps just the upper portion so that we can customize it to our needs?  Thanks for the awesome design!

  Are you sure? yes | no

Sergiy wrote 07/05/2025 at 17:09 • point

At the moment, I'm working on a modular design that allows the mobile phone case to be printed as a separate part. The idea is to make it snap securely into the main body of the case, which should simplify printing and improve overall fit and customization. You can take a look on my very first model which has something similar.  https://www.printables.com/model/1230947-3d-printed-case-for-wireless-keyboard-and-xiaomi-p

  Are you sure? yes | no

Christopher Gilbert wrote 07/05/2025 at 19:04 • point

Thanks for the quick reply!  Looking forward to the update. In the meantime, if you're looking for help I have CAD/3D printing experience and would be happy to help.

  Are you sure? yes | no

Sergiy wrote 07/05/2025 at 19:26 • point

I enjoy 3D modeling. It's my favorite hobby, so I’m happy to handle it myself for now. Anyway, thanks for the offer, I really appreciate it!

  Are you sure? yes | no

bryantm wrote 07/04/2025 at 07:33 • point

I printed version 2.01 and the keyboard print failed. Do you have any plans to add other versions of this case?

  Are you sure? yes | no

Sergiy wrote 07/04/2025 at 09:33 • point

The current version is v2.2.0, which is more suitable for PETG, but there should be no problem printing it with PLA. I assume you're having a printing issue with the hinge part of the case. I had the same problem, so I spent some time investigating the proper slicer configuration and reconfigured it to get the best results from my 3D printer — a fairly cheap Chinese printer branded Flyingbear GHOST 6.

  Are you sure? yes | no

bryantm wrote 07/04/2025 at 09:40 • point

Sorry I didn't make myself clear. The keyboard printed fine. The case broke when I put the keyboard into the case. The thinner part of the keyboard case broke away from the rest of the keyboard case.

  Are you sure? yes | no

Sergiy wrote 07/04/2025 at 09:55 • point

I had similar issue too.  I had layers adhesion problem after replacing brass nozzle with hardened steel one. I've fixed it by adding 20 degrees to my current hotend temperature..

  Are you sure? yes | no

Sergiy wrote 07/04/2025 at 10:06 • point

But anyway, v2.2.0 has all parts of the case much thicker comparing to all previous versions. 

  Are you sure? yes | no

0xh4z wrote 07/01/2025 at 03:35 • point

Thanks for the inspiration! Now I know what I can do with my old phones!

  Are you sure? yes | no

Harlw wrote 06/27/2025 at 14:52 • point

Love it! What did you design it in? I'd be interested in creating revisions for additional phones.

  Are you sure? yes | no

Kai Morgan wrote 05/24/2025 at 15:19 • point

Would  love to see this as a modular case to change devices as I have the OnePlus 8Pro with a full Nethunter install. This is beautiful work!

  Are you sure? yes | no

Adam wrote 05/23/2025 at 03:44 • point

What are the contents of the Magisk zip?  Is it just the source zipped up?

  Are you sure? yes | no

Sergiy wrote 05/23/2025 at 05:32 • point

Yes.  You just need to change .apk to .zip and write it. Forgot to mention it. I will update the manual. 

  Are you sure? yes | no

Fabricio Robles wrote 05/22/2025 at 07:54 • point

I love this! That is hell of an asset to have. Now I am wondering if my Oneplus 8T would be a good candidate for a similar project.

  Are you sure? yes | no

Mike wrote 05/21/2025 at 16:53 • point

I love the idea!  There's so much that can be done with a palmtop in that form factor.  Now you've got me thinking of what hardware I've got laying around that could be used for a similar purpose.  Maybe it's time to build my own.  Thanks for sharing!

  Are you sure? yes | no

Sergiy wrote 05/21/2025 at 17:13 • point

I'm really glad to hear my project inspired you! You're very welcome!

  Are you sure? yes | no

X1tedless wrote 05/21/2025 at 16:26 • point

what a great project, keep it up 

  Are you sure? yes | no

Josh wrote 05/21/2025 at 16:23 • point

Just came to say this looks awesome! I love the clamshell style too, just looks so cool as well as being useful. 

Out of interest, what's the external aerial and circuit board shown in the pictures, it's not in the list of parts?

  Are you sure? yes | no

Sergiy wrote 05/21/2025 at 16:39 • point

This is "naked" TP-LINK TL-WN722N wireless card which is pretty common device for testing 2.4 WiFi network. I've added a custom minimal casing 3d model for it in the files.  I used it to depict the use of the panel on the back side.

  Are you sure? yes | no

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