Just updated post #1 to include "where to buy parts", if anybody have some links for places to buy parts (mostly Micro-USB connectors) post or PM me

Is this recommended for the N9 too?

I would say it is recommend for pretty much every device with a MicroUSB, if you have to use much force to put in or pull out the USB then you should file it down, you don't have to file it all the way down, you can do it gradually until you don't have to apply "extreme" force to use the USB

I usually rip those cable hooks out with pliers, just as effective.

I got my N900 fixed today finally at a nearby electronics equipment/maintenance shop, but it costed a pianful 35$ to do so.

But I can now see a new firmly soldered microUSB port in place, yes, the whole port was replaced, with a very neat job I say. I can guarantee that my N900 will hopefully live for 5 more years, BUT an operation like that, does it really cost 35$?

I think 35$ is cheap, i would take more because it is a big job when you don't have the proper equipment.

BTW, if our USB port would be done like our jack port/speakers/basically everything else, it would be virtually indestructible/easily replaceable without *any* tools (other's than screwdriver for unscrewing screws and opening case). I don't have idea, why placing USB ports directly on board is general rule - kinda idiotic.

Every other port is connected via spring connectors, touching correct pads on motherboard. So, no matter of pressure, there isn't a chance of ripping anything from MB. Why not using it for microUSB is beyond me.

/Estel

It should be very possible to have a non attached USB, power wise it should be no problem to handle 1.2A, this would be a reason not to do it, but i can't see why it should not work.

1.2 A flowing through spring connection could cause a lot of heat being generated at the point of contact with pads hence to choice for soldered hard connection, I suppose? That's probably the reason why all power relays are replaceable cause they simply fail, eventually...

Yes that would be my concern also, but other then that i also think that it will take more space in the N900 to do a dis-attached USB, even if it is only 5 pins you have to make sure they ALWAYS align, so the contact pins properly need to be as big as JACK + the +/- pins will need to be pretty big to allow up-to 1.2A without causing excessive heat.