If you work in a place where your computer is heavily locked-down, you may well get errors and warnings whenever you connect your mobile device to the USB port. The annoying thing is that you're not wanting to transfer files; you just want the power from the USB port to charge your device. This instructable shows you how to covert a standard cable into a 'power only' cable in just a couple of minutes.

Step 1: Identify the Data Transfer Pins

Look into the large USB plug -- the end that goes into the computer. You'll see 4 gold contacts. The outer two carry the power, while the centre two carry the data. We are going to shield the data connections so only the power can get through.

Step 2: Cut the Tape to the Right Width

This step is a bit fiddly. You need to cut a narrow strip of sticky tape that is large enough to completely cover those two inner contacts, but small enough avoid reaching the outer two contacts. Trial and error is sufficient here -- cut it too wide and then trim until the size is just right. (Don't worry about the length at this stage.)

Step 3: Apply the Sticky Tape Over the Data Contacts

Carefully insert your strip of sticky tape, being sure to cover the data contacts (the inner two) and not the power contacts (the outer two). Make sure the tape goes right down into the plug -- the data contacts need to be completely covered.

Step 4: Ensure Good Adhesion

Insert a small flat item into the plug to make sure the tape is properly stuck down.

Step 5: Trim Excess Tape

Finally, trim off any excess tape. Do not just fold it over, because the plug is built to a precise size and by having tape on the outside of the plug, it could get tricky to put into its socket.

Step 6: Done!

That's it, done! Now, when you connect your mobile device to the computer, your device will receive power to charge it, but the computer will not register that the device is connected.