The hardware mod method depends on a raspi rp2040 chip to fiddle with some CPU lines and emulate the storage, so the mega-cheap way involves a little fabrication and fly wires to a $3 board, but you can get premade flex-pcb kits called “picofly” boards for crazy cheap now, like 20 bucks. The hardest part is the precise and delicate soldering that absolutely requires skill and some high quality tools, but it’s not outside the realm of possibility if you’re already equipped and experienced with microscope-level repairs. It is an advanced level DIY procedure, and not for the inexperienced hobbyist.
The hardware mod method depends on a raspi rp2040 chip to fiddle with some CPU lines and emulate the storage, so the mega-cheap way involves a little fabrication and fly wires to a $3 board, but you can get premade flex-pcb kits called “picofly” boards for crazy cheap now, like 20 bucks. The hardest part is the precise and delicate soldering that absolutely requires skill and some high quality tools, but it’s not outside the realm of possibility if you’re already equipped and experienced with microscope-level repairs. It is an advanced level DIY procedure, and not for the inexperienced hobbyist.