The HP Compaq T5500 is a thin client capable of running a variety of retro Windows operating systems. However, for storage it has a single 44 pin mini-IDE connector that has a small amount of flash storage connected to it. To be able to install Windows, a larger drive must be used. An extension must be used for a compact flash or SD card adapter to be able to fit.

The location of the flash module.
The flash module.
Disk-on-module.
Compact flash to IDE with ribbon cable.

I didn’t like the idea of using ribbon cables as an extension, so I created a small PCB that repositions the IDE connector so that a compact flash adapter can be used. My first couple of designs allowed for two IDE connectors using right-angled pin headers.

Early design with two IDE connectors.
Early design with two IDE connectors.

In the end I went with a design that allows for just one IDE connector that fits the generic compact flash adapter found all over the internet. It is possible to get/make an adapter that allows for two compact flash cards.

The final design from the side.
The final design from above with the IDE activity light.
Duel compact flash cards connected.
A render of the PCB.

The design also allows for an optional IDE activity LED to be added. If you would like to make your own adapter the PCB design can be download on my GitHub repo.