How to Make a Mindstorms EV3 Console Cable

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The EV3 brick runs a version of Ångström Linux, so wouldn’t it be awesome to be access the brick’s serial console in order to debug the system during startup? The kernel outputs diagnostic data to the first sensor port. But how to get that data when the port in question uses Mindstorms’ proprietary plug?

On his website, Mindstorms guru Xander Soldaat shows how to hack a Mindstorms wire by stripping of the insulation on the 6-wire cable, clipping off 3 of the wires, leaving only TX, RX, and GND. The remaining wires are plugged into a Propeller Plug USB-to-serial dongle, enabling you to plug in your EV3 brick directly to your computer via the port.

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My interests include writing, electronics, RPGs, scifi, hackers & hackerspaces, 3D printing, building sets & toys. @johnbaichtal nerdage.net

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