A Complete Guide to Using Mechanism's BaseGrip with Your Steam Controller and Phone

Overview

The Mechanism BaseGrip is an innovative accessory that allows you to attach your Steam Controller—a $99 gamepad from Valve—to a phone, an Ikea Skadis pegboard, or virtually any other surface using Mechanism's expanding lineup of mounts. As the first third-party mount for the Steam Controller, the BaseGrip was developed thanks to early access to the controller's design, and it launches on the same day as the controller. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: from understanding the components to step-by-step assembly, and from common pitfalls to getting the most out of your Steam Controller for mobile remote play or tidy storage.

Prerequisites

What You'll Need

• Steam Controller – The Valve gamepad (released $99).
• Mechanism BaseGrip – The core mounting accessory (sold separately).
• Optional phone mount – Mechanism's dedicated phone mount (or any compatible mount with a standard 1/4″-20 thread).
• Optional Ikea Skadis pegboard – For wall mounting, plus Mechanism's Skadis adapter.
• Smartphone – Running the Steam Link app (iOS/Android) for remote play.
• PC with Steam – The host computer for game streaming.
• Tools – Usually none, but a small Phillips screwdriver may be needed if the BaseGrip includes set screws.

Understanding the BaseGrip Design

The BaseGrip consists of a contoured plastic clip that wraps around the central handle of the Steam Controller. It secures with a spring-loaded mechanism and a thumbwheel screw to prevent slipping. At the bottom of the clip is a standard 1/4″-20 threaded socket – the same size used by camera tripods and many phone mounts. This socket is the key to attaching the controller to other Mechanism accessories.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Attaching the BaseGrip to the Steam Controller

1. Orient the Steam Controller face up. Locate the central handle – the curved section where your thumbs rest naturally.
2. Hold the BaseGrip so the open side of the clip faces you. Slide the clip onto the controller handle from the front, ensuring the rubberized inner pads contact the controller evenly.
3. Press the clip fully onto the handle until you hear a click, indicating the spring latch has engaged. Do not force it; if resistance is too high, slightly rotate the clip before pressing.
4. Tighten the thumbwheel screw on the side of the clip until it firmly grips the controller. Over-tightening may damage the controller plastic – snug is sufficient.
5. Test the connection by gently wiggling the BaseGrip. It should not move independently. If it does, re-tighten or reposition.

2. Mounting a Phone (for Remote Play)

1. Obtain a phone mount that has a 1/4″-20 threaded hole. Mechanism's own phone mount is recommended, but any tripod-compatible mount works.
2. Screw the phone mount onto the BaseGrip's threaded socket. Turn it clockwise until hand-tight. Do not use tools; overtightening can strip threads.
3. Place your smartphone into the phone mount's clamp. Adjust the clamp width to fit your phone snugly. Ensure all buttons and ports remain accessible.
4. Now set up the Steam Link app on your phone. Pair your Steam Controller via Bluetooth (or USB-OTG if your phone supports it). Launch the app, connect to your PC on the same network, and start playing.

3. Hanging the Controller on an Ikea Skadis Pegboard

1. Obtain a Mechanism Skadis adapter – a small bracket that snaps onto the Skadis board and has a 1/4″-20 male stud.
2. Attach the Skadis adapter to the BaseGrip by screwing it into the threaded socket.
3. Click the adapter onto your Skadis pegboard at your desired location. The combination securely holds the controller vertically or horizontally.
4. To remove, press the release tab on the adapter and lift the controller away.

4. Mounting to Other Surfaces (e.g., Monitor, Desk, Wall)

The BaseGrip's universal thread allows connection to any accessory that uses a 1/4″-20 screw, such as:

• Monitor arms with VESA mounts (requires an adapter).
• Suction cup mounts for windows or desks.
• Articulating arms for adjustable positioning.

Simply screw the BaseGrip onto the mount of your choice. Ensure the mount can support the combined weight of controller and BaseGrip (about 400g).

Common Mistakes

Using an Incompatible Phone Mount

Not all phone mounts have a 1/4″-20 thread. Some use a proprietary clip. Always check the mount's specifications before purchasing. If you already have a mount without that thread, you can buy a 1/4″-20 to cold shoe adapter, but it adds bulk.

Over-Tightening the BaseGrip Thumbwheel

The Steam Controller's handle has a slightly flexible plastic shell. Over-tightening can crack the seams. Tighten only until movement stops – do not force an extra quarter turn. If the BaseGrip slips later, try adding a thin piece of rubber (e.g., a cut-up mouse pad) between the clip and controller.

Forgetting to Pair the Controller Before Mounting

If you mount the phone first and then try to pair the controller, you may have difficulty accessing the pairing button (located on the controller's underside). Pair your Steam Controller with your phone before attaching it to the BaseGrip and phone mount. Use the controller's pairing button: hold it for three seconds until the LED blinks, then connect via the Steam Link app.

Using the BaseGrip with the Controller's USB Cable

The BaseGrip is designed for the wireless Steam Controller. If you plan to play while charging, the USB-C port on the controller might be partially blocked by the clip. Check the clearance; you may need to loosen or remove the clip to plug in the cable.

Mounting on a Skadis Pegboard Without the Correct Adapter

The BaseGrip's thread does not directly fit the Skadis holes. You must use Mechanism's dedicated Skadis adapter, which clicks into the pegboard. Generic pegboard hooks may not hold the weight or may damage the controller.

Summary

The Mechanism BaseGrip transforms your Steam Controller into a versatile device that can be attached to your phone for mobile gaming via Steam Link, or stored neatly on an Ikea Skadis pegboard. By following the steps above—attaching the clip securely, matching it with the right mount, and avoiding common pitfalls like over-tightening or improper pairing—you'll get the most out of this first-of-its-kind accessory. Whether you're streaming games from your PC to your phone or just want a tidy workspace, the BaseGrip makes it simple.