Project: PackNPlay

[crazybillybob]

I know the "briefcase PC" Isn't all that new or original... But This is a mod born out of need... I'm traveling Allot for work by Air. And I'm sick of not being able to game when I'm not home, and giving up the performance of my desktop for a crappy company Laptop... So hopefully I can give this old Idea a new life and in the process keep you all interested in it.


The goal with this mod was to pack the most computing power that I can afford into a package that can be carried onto a domestic airline flight... Total cost must be less then a comparable laptop :)

To make this goal I needed a case that fits within the 45 linear inches (9 inches by 14 inches by 22 inches) that most domestic air carriers allow as a carry on. It also means that the case and hardware installation must be rugged. There will also be a space limitation that will be looked at when choosing parts for this build.


I started off the build by hitting E-bay for a suitable case...$26 later I found this Gem.
Outside View:
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Outercase01_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Outercase01_big.jpg)

Inside View:
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Innercase_foam_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Innercase_foam_big.jpg)
With the foam liners removed...
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/innercase_foamless_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/innercase_foamless_big.jpg)

Now comes the Start of the Hardware...
PSU and Video Card... A nice Start.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Hardware01_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Hardware01_big.jpg)

I'll be using a Micro ATX Motherboard those are 9.6"x9.6" So I need to see how I can lay out the hardware and leave that much space free..
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/SpaceCheck01_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/SpaceCheck01_big.jpg)

Is there enough free space????
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/clear_meas_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/clear_meas_big.jpg)

Next Post the Base plate... For a good foundation.

CrazyBillyBob

[crazybillybob]

The Baseplate for the Rig is 1/8" Aluminum.. A Nice solid non-flexible base.
A paper template of the case was made. This template was then Transfered onto a larger plate of Aluminum..
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Temp_Alum_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Temp_Alum_big.jpg)

After a brief run in with my Jig saw and a quick clean with some sand paper (to knock the sharp edges from the cut edges)
The Base Plate was ready for a test fit.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Alum_testfit_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Alum_testfit_big.jpg)

Perfect!!!

I've ordered the Mother board it's a GIGABYTE GA-MA69GM-S2H AMD AM2. It should be there when I get home this weekend so I can see for sure if I have enough space (not real worried about it not fitting). I'll also re-make the PSU mounting Bracket..I made it once but ended up putting the mounting tab on the top instead of the bottom...oops :) (pics to come).

As I'm traveling allot I'm limited in the amount of time I've got to work on this mod... But I've got a good incentive to get it done quickly!! (GAME TIME!!!)

Till Next Time,
CrazyBillyBob

[weazel6265]

I would be concerned about uneducated security guards seeing a briefcase full of wires and electronic parts. Especially after the Boston LED Bomb scare. I just don't want your rig confiscated.

[crazybillybob]

I've thought about that, and I'm hoping that some of my Ideas will make it less of an issue. We'll see what happens the first time I take it trough security. :)

CrazyBillyBob

[crazybillybob]

SO, Other then Shoveling snow I didn't get much done this weekend...
But I did drop the Mobo into the case to see how it would fit.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Moboplacement_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Moboplacement_big.jpg)

I'm thinking now that I'm going to try moving some of the parts around and see if the wiring gets easier.

The other thing I found was the perfect Keyboard. It fits in the case with a bit of room to spare on each side. The Keys are a bit tight but I've been using a laptop for so long that I have problems typing on regular Keyboard so it's perfect fit for me.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/keyboardfit_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/keyboardfit_big.jpg)

Now I said before that I made up 1 PSU mount but found that I had put the mounting tab on the wrong side... Well here it is
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/BadPSUmount_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/BadPSUmount_big.jpg)

It's upside down, but turned out looking good. I'm hoping to get a new one made up and get a bit more time to work some of the details out.

Happy Holidays Everyone!!! :santa:

CrazyBillyBob

[jdbnsn]

I've thought about that, and I'm hoping that some of my Ideas will make it less of an issue. We'll see what happens the first time I take it trough security. :)

CrazyBillyBob

I'm stoked to see a new project from the great CBB! But if you plan to walk through airline security with that thing I'd wear groin protection cause I think they are going to flip their lids when they see that thing. You are going to wake up cuffed to a chair in the basement of some unoccupied building with some jerk in a suit asking you who you work for.

[crazybillybob]

I'm stoked to see a new project from the great CBB! But if you plan to walk through airline security with that thing I'd wear groin protection cause I think they are going to flip their lids when they see that thing. You are going to wake up cuffed to a chair in the basement of some unoccupied building with some jerk in a suit asking you who you work for.

Wow,
This seems to be everyone's fear but mine. I've seen (and talked with others) that carried there shuttle style cases and LCD onto airplanes... I'm just making it easier to carry :)
Just settle some fears, I've looked into this quite a bit, and I'm not a lawyer but I've not found any rules that would get me in trouble if I carry this in. Now I do expect to have to let them do a physical search and I'm sure it will get swabbed for explosive residue (allot!). but other then that I think I'll be ok.


and if I do get ask who I work for... The Republic will be my answer.:eek:
:D

CrazyBillyBob

[jdbnsn]

I was kinda kidding, I'm sure you'll get the full search but yeah, a residue swab should let you through. Hell, half of the passengers carry laptops and a quick x-ray confirms their safety. As for who you work for, just don't say "The rebel alliance" Darth Bush will have his way with you.

[Luke122]

I didnt catch this in the thread, but are you planning on having this system work like a laptop, only larger? Keyboard and mouse to be attached inside, or will they be separate?

For comfort/ergonomic reasons I would suggest that they are separate, plus that also allows easy replacement of the peripherals if any gets broken. :)

[crazybillybob]

The LCD Will be mounted in the case (some adjustment built in). The mouse and Keyboard will be removable, for easy comfortable use! Everything should be replaceable in this rig...Just in case :)

CrazyBillyBob

[SgtM]

Keeping with the airport security theme:

DNgqDs23rI0

[crazybillybob]

:hurt::neutral::p
Nice!!!

[gnat]

looks like a great project! Too bad you don't have a laptop to part out so you could run with a battery and not need a power cord all the time.

Airport security might actually want to see it run, should be fun :)

[crazybillybob]

Gnat,
That's a nice Idea, but this system wouldn't run very long on a battery...and it would be to heavy if I put a battery system in there that would run long enough.

And if TSA wanted to see it work they'll find a 120V outlet for me!

CrazyBillyBob

[OvRiDe]

Great to see you back in action CBB!!! Can't wait to see this little gem come together!

[simon275]

Nice Idea I was looking at cases like that during work today. Why did you choose a 850 watt psu it would run pretty hot and you aren't running any beefy GFX cards.

[crazybillybob]

Nice Idea I was looking at cases like that during work today. Why did you choose a 850 watt psu it would run pretty hot and you aren't running any beefy GFX cards.

The Answer is the Price....FREE!!
We won a good bit of stuff @ Maximum PC's Showdown LAN -Indy this year... The PSU and the Vid cards were just some of it!

CrazyBillyBob

[crazybillybob]

I've got some updates to upload on this project Soon!!!

simon i want to get back to the topic of the 850W PSU when I'm not running a power hungry rig.

I've got the system up and running (outside of the case)... I've very happy with the PSU, It runs so quiet and cool because I'm not putting a big load on it!!! it was a great choice. The Rig so far is near silent I know when I add it to the case I'll need some extra fans but it should still be much quieter then my current rig. These newer higher efficiency PSU with dynamic fan speeds are worth the cost if you want to keep the rig quiet... mix it with some quiet fans and heat pipes or liquid cpu/gpu cooling and you'll have one of the quietest rigs you've seen.

CrazyBillyBob

[Luke122]

These newer higher efficiency PSU with dynamic fan speeds are worth the cost if you want to keep the rig quiet... mix it with some quiet fans and heat pipes or liquid cpu/gpu cooling and you'll have one of the quietest rigs you've seen.


Seen, but not heard. :D

[crazybillybob]

What??? AN UPDATE??? How could that be?

I've been focusing on the HDD mounts lately. Because it's a portable rig I want good shock / Vibration protection. So I went looking for what was on the market what I found was not so great and over priced.... Off to the local ACE hardware where I found expanding rubber stoppers of just the right size, some Stainless 6-32 cap screws and stainless washers.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/HDD_exp_stopper_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/HDD_exp_stopper_big.JPG)

So what are expanding rubber stoppers? well there these thick rubber washers with a lip on one end and a integrated brass nut in the other. When the stopper is put in a hole about the same size the screw with a washer is threaded in from the lipped side. The Screw puts longitudinal pressure on the stopper causing it to deform into the hole.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/HDD_vibe_mount_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/HDD_vibe_mount_big.JPG)

I used screws that were long enough to go through the stopper and in to the HDD. With this setup there is no metal to metal contact between the HDD and the drive cage. This keeps the shocks received in travel from being transferred in the HDD and damaging it. As well as the vibrations created when the HDD is running from traveling to the drive cage reducing operating noise.

Ok, so the theory section is over. To construct the drive cage I just put a 90 degree bend in some 1/8" Aluminum. To get a sharp bend I used my moto-tool to cut about 1/2 the Aluminum from the bend point and used a little 18" bench brake, but you could use some angle iron and a vise.
One side of the cage is mounted to the motherboard tray with rivets (this was done because of a clearance issue under the PSU) The other side is held down with Stainless cap screws.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/HDD_mounted_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/HDD_mounted_big.JPG)

I also went ahead and mounted the Motherboard, so I had to show you all how it looked in the case.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Dry_fit_01_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Dry_fit_01_big.JPG)

OK, So I've also loaded the OS and played some BF2142 with too :)
I've got a good bit of "Dressing" to do yet but I couldn't leave it that close and not "TEST" it.

More to come!


Let me know what you think!
CrazyBillyBob



I'll be working on those broken linked pics shortly too!

[crazybillybob]

To give you some Ideas Of costs..
The Nexus DoubleTwin Hard Drive Vibration Absorber (http://www.heatsinkfactory.com/nexus-doubletwin-hard-drive-vibration-absorber.html)
runs $9.99+S/H


My setup runs ($0.39 X4) +($0.19X4)=$2.32

[DonT-FeaR]

man i just got back from holidays and if you want to run this thing there is accually a power point in the plane toilet so if u want to be selfish theres 1 way :P

[crazybillybob]

Just to keep you all up to date, This mod is not dead... Just postponed till fall.

I've got another mod I've got to get done before I can get back to this one.

Yes, the other mod is a secret.... But Never fear there will be a work log here when I can!


CrazyBillyBob

[b4i7]

Just to keep you all up to date, This mod is not dead... Just postponed till fall.

I've got another mod I've got to get done before I can get back to this one.

Yes, the other mod is a secret.... But Never fear there will be a work log here when I can!


CrazyBillyBob

so three projects going right now?? when are we gonna see r2 finished?

[crazybillybob]

Not sure R2 will ever be "finished" :)
I've got some more recent pics of him 99.9% completed (just have the hose details on his ankles to install), Once that's done... There are some upgrades planed for him, but just to replace some of the cheaper (ie not working as well as I would like) parts with better parts....

But yeap, right now I've got 3 in various stages of completion... and a fourth in the Idea stage.... I need more time to work on these and less time spent at work :)


CrazyBillyBob

[bennyrux]

Cool Project! I hope to build one similar for the same reasons.

I look forward to seeing it resume!

[crazybillybob]

It seems that getting the Razer case done has made my modding bug perk up, so I'm back to the PacknPlay. I've been using this as my main Rig (It's really a bad Idea to start using your mod too early, then you never want to finish it! :)

I'm designing a motherboard cover in because the motherboard would be exposed when the pc is in use if I didn't, fingers, kitty's, and other conductive things could "fall" into making the pc's life very short with out it.

For the cover I broke out my sheet of 1/8" expanded PVC (sintra). I've got an area marked out that will be enough to cover the whole motherboard, PSU, and Hdd. I'll cut down to this sheet to make it easier to handle (it' a 4'x 4' mother sheet I'm starting with)
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/PVC_sheet_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/PVC_sheet_big.jpg)

From the smaller sheet I cut the Covers to fit around the parts like the CPU heat sink, the ram, and GPU. Then I glued on the side rails (pieces to mount to the case, and connect the two covers together).
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/cover_glueup_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/cover_glueup_big.jpg)

One of the benefits to using the PVC board is that the parts can be glue welded together using Pipe Glue.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/pvcglue_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/pvcglue_big.jpg)
This makes a strong bond because it causes the PVC on each part to melt a little and fuse together.

Once the glue dried the parts looked like this.
Http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/deck_cut_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/deck_cut_big.jpg)
The one on the right covers the Motherboard and the one on the left covers the PSU, and HDD.
I must have test fitted these things like 10 times, and never got a pic of the covers in place. I'll take some this weekend when I'm back home.

This last weekend my wife and I took a little trip up into the Blue Ridge mountains of Western North Carolina (nice place if you've never been). On the trip we found a bunch of rocks (Quartz crystals, and other semi-precious gem stones). As we found them they gave me an idea...

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Power_crystal_raw_parts_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Power_crystal_raw_parts_big.jpg)
I took some of the Crystals, some LEDS, a few pieces of PVC board, and a hot glue gun...

And came up with a "Power Crystal" to run the PacknPlay (TSA is going to love this :) :shock: )
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Power_Crystal_no_glow_thm.jpg (www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Power_Crystal_no_glow_big.jpg)

Mind you I put this together in my Hotel room and took the pic with my cell (that's why there a little fuzzy) So it's not finished or mounted in the case yet...(what you don't travel with your dremel, and a hot glue gun?) So I hacked a Usb cable to test out the LEDS.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Power_Crystal_green_glow_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Power_Crystal_green_glow_big.jpg)

I need to make up a circuit to make the green leds twinkle and/ or fade.. maybe add some UV Led's for the Glow in the dark effect... But I like the look.

That's it for this entry .... Next time I'll mount the Power Crystal, and get some pics of the cover in place.

Also what am I going to do with these ???
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/fans_package_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/fans_package_big.jpg)


Till then! Keep your stick on the ICE!

CrazyBillyBob

[FuzzyPlushroom]

If you weren't gonna get searched before, you will now (between the quartz and the "Guided Missile" squirrelcage fan). I really do like this type of project, though - watchin' this thread for possible ideas (I've got something remotely similar bouncing around in my head right now).

[DeuceX]

Good to see that this mod is back on...I was worried that the TSA had confiscated it :P I would toss some UV's in the quartz too, but hey that's just me. Good to see you are back on it!

[XcOM]

DUDEEEEEEEE,,,,,loooks freeeeeeekiiiiinngngnggngngnggggg cool,


sorry i exploded all over the keyboard

[DonT-FeaR]

sweet that looks great

[dfigravity]

This last weekend my wife and I took a little trip up into the Blue Ridge mountains of Western North Carolina (nice place if you've never been). On the trip we found a bunch of rocks (Quartz crystals, and other semi-precious gem stones). As we found them they gave me an idea...

http://www.fccmonline.com/LanImages/packnplay/thumbs/Power_crystal_raw_parts_thm.jpg (http://www.fccmonline.com/LanImages/packnplay/Power_crystal_raw_parts_big.jpg)
I took some of the Crystals, some LEDS, a few pieces of PVC board, and a hot glue gun...

And came up with a "Power Crystal" to run the PacknPlay (TSA is going to love this :) :shock: )

CrazyBillyBob


AWESOME! :banana: In Renderman's project XPS Ground Effects they put together a nice little LED circuit that could be cool here... video (http://s65.photobucket.com/albums/h205/rendermandan/XPS%20Laptop/?action=view&current=100_5285.flv) Thread (http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15572) Keep up the good work bro!

[crazybillybob]

I've seen Rendermans XPS lights before, very cool.
I've got some Ideas, that are a little lower tech but should work out well (I hope :) )

CrazyBillyBob

[rendermandan]

Thanks you guys, Its nice to see people referring to my projects once in a while. :) -Let me know if you need any help with the led's. +rep just for referencing me. LOL

[bennyrux]

Thanks for resuming PackNPlay! Lookin' forward to more updates! +rep

[crazybillybob]

Thanks guys,

I've got a ton more work done, just need to take the time to update the worklog.


CrazyBillyBob

[DonT-FeaR]

cool ill look forward to it..

[crazybillybob]

Hi all,
It's been awhile, and boy have I been busy! I plowed trough allot to get the Pack-N-Play to a usable point for Showdown Lan ILL. 2008 (Sept. 26-28 )
So I think I'll break it up into multiple entries, just for ease of reading.
Where did we leave off... Oh yes the "Power Crystals". For the Crystals I wanted a throbbing
light effect, kind of like the warp core on that Trek show. So I did some research and bread boarded
up a circuit to test.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/fade_breadboard_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/fade_breadboard_big.JPG)

The test looked something like this MP4 file (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/PNP_Light_test.mp4)
I liked the effect, but not the colors... I think I'll only use Blue, Green and Yellow.
So the next step was to create a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) , I normally don't like making double sided PCB
at home (very hard to solder without vias) but I did it this time.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/fade_PCB1_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/fade_PCB1_big.JPG)
It took about 8-9 tries to get this but it looks ok so I stuffed it full of parts.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/fade_PCB1_pop_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/fade_PCB1_pop_big.JPG)
That was 3 and 1/2 week, a half a dozen transistors, and 2 op amps ago.... And it still doesn't work :( So as you can guess you'll be seeing more of this Circuit
In future worklogs as I plan to remake the PCB.

I'm planing on having the power plug into one of the Covers, this way one plug will power both the PC, and the monitor.
(Power port will be in the upper right corner in this picture)
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Cover_dryfit1_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Cover_dryfit1_big.JPG)

As you can see here, there is very little clearance between the PSU and the Wall of the enclosure.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Dry_fit_01_THM.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Dry_fit_01_big.JPG)
So the Power plug into the PSU needs to be a low profile model, which no one makes. That's ok I'll mod one!

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/pwr_plug_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/pwr_plug_big.JPG)
I stared with a stock Power cable.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/pwr_plug_cut_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/pwr_plug_cut_big.JPG)
Then Trimmed it down to size (utility knife works great on this rubberized plastic).

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/pwr_plug_recrimp_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/pwr_plug_recrimp_big.JPG)
The wires are reconnected using the crimp ends that are in the plug. It takes a little gentle prying with a small screw driver to open them up enough to get the old wires out and the new wires in, but it really wasn't hard.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/pwr_plug_safe_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/pwr_plug_safe_big.JPG)
Now the bare wires are given a liberal coating of hot glue to protect everything (everyone) for getting zapped!

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/pwr_recpt_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/pwr_recpt_big.JPG)
The Jack came from an old machine (I don't remember for sure what it was, it's been in my junk box for years... An external tape drive maybe?) But it has a nice filter setup and mounts with 2 screws... perfect for this project!

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/pwr_harness_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/pwr_harness_big.JPG)
The finished Harness...an't it a beauty? (Bonus points for anyone that see's that there is no plug for the monitor in this pic...It took me a few hours to
Realize I forgot that part...It got spliced in up by the receptacle, but I forgot to snap a pic of that setup)

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/pwr_plug_testfit_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/pwr_plug_testfit_big.JPG)
Now everything gets test fitted into the enclosure... This Pc was test fitted and re-fitted three dozen times trough out the build
The most I've ever had to test, because everything is so close I had to make sure no two things got in the way of one another.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/CVR_testfit_2_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/CVR_testfit_2_big.JPG)
Here's what things look like at this point. (The round hole in the bottom right is for the power switch)


In the next installment we'll cover what goes in Here!
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/PNP_lid_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/PNP_lid_big.JPG)


Please post Comments!!
CrazyBillyBob

[mittelmeier]

Looking good. Glad to see the project is still on. I can't wait to see it completed. +rep

[DonT-FeaR]

nice... looking forward to this..

[Karbon Killa]

I had that idea a long time ago. Never put it to use though. Love how everything fits so snug. Looks cool. Can't wait to see it done.

[crazybillybob]

So, Many of you all have wanted to know what's going here:
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/PNP_lid_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/PNP_lid_big.JPG)

This will be the monitor’s new home!

So What I started with was a HP 15" LCD... I know it's not the largest monitor but it had to fit into the space I had. Plus I got a great deal on this monitor! (thanks Z)
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/mon_premod_ft_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/mon_premod_ft_big.JPG)
Front
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/mon_premod_bk_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/mon_premod_bk_big.JPG)
Back

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/DSP_BCK_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/DSP_BCK_BIG.JPG)
The Base of the Monitor is held on by 4 screws, which should give me a nice way to mount the monitor into the case

Before I can mount the monitor I want to layout the cover for the monitor (this odd order will make more sense here in a minute... I promise).

So I start with a raw Sheet of PVC, and cut it down to correct size for the top of the case.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Dsp_cov_raw_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Dsp_cov_raw_big.JPG)

With those nice square corners finding the center is easy. Then I got to use my High School Geometry for the first time (ever out side of school :) ) To layout the
monitor mounting holes.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/DSP_HOLE_LAY_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/DSP_HOLE_LAY_BIG.JPG)

After rounding the Corner and drilling the mounting holes, the monitor was test fitted to the cover, and one of my supervisors stopped by to inspect my work. Luckily she approved of it. :)
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/DSP_hole_test_super_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/DSP_hole_test_super_big.JPG)

Ok, I forgot to take a few pics here, builders focus. What I did was use the cover as a template to mark the holes onto the inside of the case, So that the monitor was perfectly centered. Then the center of the cover was cut out; as you'll notice in the next pic.

Once the holes were drilled in the case and the cover center was cut out. A way to still use the adjustment buttons on the monitor was needed... So The buttons Locations were transferred to the cover and holes were drilled to receive some custom buttons.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/DSP_button_holes_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/DSP_button_holes_big.JPG)

For the custom monitor buttons I used some of the Diamond cutouts from the HDD fan guard on the bottom cover as well as some rectangular shafts, these were glued together so tat the button on the monitor is depressed when the Diamonds are pushed in.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Button_parts_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Button_parts_big.JPG)

Once the Buttons were mounted it was time for a test fit.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/DSP_testfit_1_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/DSP_testfit_1_big.JPG)

Well that just about wraps up this installment.

Next time we’ll look at the Copper mesh vent covers and start the painting process.

Thanks for watching, and as always leave comments.
CrazyBillyBob

[bennyrux]

Hey CBB, lookin' good! Two questions...

1) Is that CPU cooler gonna clear the LCD when the case is closed?

2) What is the material you're using for your cover panels?

Thanks for the inspiration!

[crazybillybob]

Hey CBB, lookin' good! Two questions...

1) Is that CPU cooler gonna clear the LCD when the case is closed?

2) What is the material you're using for your cover panels?

Thanks for the inspiration!

Answer to #1 Keep Watching to see :) I'm not giving that up just yet:rolleyes:

Answer to #2 it's Expanded PVC board each company has there own name for but most commonly it's called Sintra. It's made out of the same stuff your plastic water pipes are just the center layer has millions of tiny air bubbles in it. That makes it lighter, and easier to cut. But like all PVC never burn it in an open flame as it gives off toxic gases.

Thanks for watching this build it's been allot fun, and I'm going to need some reader feed back on some "issues" I'm having real soon so keep thinking about it :)

CrazyBillyBob

[crazybillybob]

Here we are, The monitor is test fitted, the bottom cover is test fitted.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/DSP_testfit_1_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/DSP_testfit_1_big.JPG)

The $100,000,000 question at this point is will that massive CPU heat sink let the case close with the monitor in there......

The Answer is coming. But first ;)

I want to dress up some of the vents in the cover with a custom grill. So I started with some copper mesh.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/mesh_raw_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/mesh_raw_big.JPG)

Two methods were used. For the PSU vent the copper mesh was pressed into the vent opening with the piece of PVC that was removed from the opening.
This created an embossed cover (top one in photo). The second is a box form (imagine folding a 5 sided cube out of mesh) it will fit into the top of the blower fan in the back of the case. (Bottom in Photo)
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/mesh_formed_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/mesh_formed_big.JPG)

Next you guessed Test fitting!
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/mesh_testfit_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/mesh_testfit_big.JPG)

So everything fits.... Not quite That mondo CPU cooler is in the way :( so a quick trip to newegg brings this.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/CPU_cooler3_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/CPU_cooler3_big.JPG)

It's a Dynatron 1U server CPU cooler. It's review said it was a little loud (50dB) so I ordered an extra 70mm quite fan just in case. But it really wasn't needed.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/CPU_cooler2_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/CPU_cooler2_big.JPG)

This diminutive little cooler, lets the case close and keep the CPU nice and cool.... Perfect for this project :banana:

Now that the Case closes, the covers are removed and prepped for paint.
http://www.www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/cvr_pre_prime_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/cvr_pre_prime_big.JPG)

Everything was giving 5-6 nice smooth coats of white primer.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Fan_core_primer_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Fan_core_primer_big.JPG)

The final base color choice was left up to my wife (the choice was between matte black and silver metallic) the end choice was silver metallic. Everything got several coats of the silver metallic paint (lost count).
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/cvr_paint_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/cvr_paint_big.JPG)

Now fast forward 48 hours the paint is dry, the covers are reinstalled and here we are.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/PNP_cvr_scr_fit_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/PNP_cvr_scr_fit_big.JPG)

That's where I'm at right now... I've got a few issues mainly the GPU that's hanging out in the middle of everything, and I'm planning on using the copper mesh to cover the square hole above CPU and over the ram.

This is the CPU and Ram area I'm talking about.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/CPU_RAM_no_cvr_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/CPU_RAM_no_cvr_big.JPG)

What do you guys think?

I'm not really sure what to do with the GPU.... I could make a copper mesh cage around it, the big thing is that it needs allot of air to keep cool while gaming (or folding)
So a solid plastic a cover is pretty much out.... Ideas?

Here's a close up of the exposed Gpu.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/GPU_noCvr_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/GPU_noCvr_big.JPG)


I'm really looking for thoughts, Ideas, and comments on the covers, I really like the clean look and would like to make it carry trough in those last few areas.


Till next time!

CrazyBillyBob

[mittelmeier]

That looks awesome. I think your wife made the right choice on the paint. As far as covering the GPU, since you already are using the mesh in other areas I would continue with it and cover the GPU with it. Does the GPU stick up higher than the cover on the right? It looks like it does in the picture, if not I may take the mesh and run it the whole way across on the left for an even surface. Unless of course you nee that space for storage or anything. Either way, sweet build. +rep

[DonT-FeaR]

Nice Man Nice!!!!!!!!!1

[bennyrux]

Ok, don't hate me, but why not have one cover across the entire bottom part of the case instead of the two separate pieces at different heights? Or one piece that is bent down on the left side of the vid card and then continues across to cover the mobo.

Try as I might I just haven't been able to conceive an idea for the vid card as it is.

The new CPU cooler is perfect tho and the LCD frame rocks!!

[Luke122]

why not have one cover across the entire bottom part of the case instead of the two separate pieces at different heights?

I second this.. a single piece across the whole bottom would definitely look smoother, even if there was additional fan/vent openings in it. I think that would solve your issue with covering the GPU for sure.

Is the cover on the left lower over the cpu and ram to allow them to stick up and out for better cooling? (Sorry if you've answered this already!)

[d_stilgar]

I love it. Custom styrene frames are always cool.

[crazybillybob]

My original plan was to have the bottom on solid piece. This proved to be impractical due to the height of the Video card Vs the CPU.

I have made a change in the setup. I'm planning on upgrading the Video card soon to a larger model (11" long) To increase the cooling and make things fit better I'm planning on installing on of these
http://www.mo-co-so.com/~photos/flexible-PCIe/flexible-PCIe.jpg
Flexible PCI-e extenders. This will let me lay the Video card on it's side, that way I can make a PVC shield with Vents around it. Should solve the cooling and Stealthing issues I've got.



I've also got to check into where all the pic links went.... Might be time for a new Web Host!



CrazyBillyBob

[DonT-FeaR]

i have always wanted one of those.... never knew the were accually around... wow

[nevermind1534]

Ribbon PCI Express riser

[crazybillybob]

i have always wanted one of those.... never knew the were accually around... wow
There's a guy on E-bay that has them for $39.99 but they are the right hand models (Shown in pic) I'm looking for the Left hand ones... Couple of hits from Google I think I can get them for about $50 us.... You can get them up to 15" long, that's a bit much for my needs :) But yes the do exist!

[DonT-FeaR]

hmm bit expensive lol... oh well... looks cool... good work thanks 4 the info

[bennyrux]

Have you checked here:

http://www.adexelec.com/pciexp.htm

[LiTHiUM0XiD3]

hey man... wasup with all your pics missing.. i seethe places they should fit in... but its just like a line or 2 skip to the next sentence... so um ye.. i unno where the pics r heh... but i would love to see em
only thing i can see is the PCI extender...

[Mach]

Please let us know how the ribbon cable works out for you. I really could use something like this for a mod. :up:

[crazybillybob]

hey man... wasup with all your pics missing.. i seethe places they should fit in... but its just like a line or 2 skip to the next sentence... so um ye.. i unno where the pics r heh... but i would love to see em
only thing i can see is the PCI extender...

I've had an issue with my Host some Virus/ Malware was involved....
Short story, All the pics are gone, and I need a new reliable host. Hopefully I'll get this all worked out and the pics will be on a new host next week... I'll post an update when they should be back up Sorry about this but it was not my Idea ;)



Have you checked here:

http://www.adexelec.com/pciexp.htm
Yes I looked at them, one of the first site I hit actually. The $39 ebay one is still cheaper.
Once I get it and the new Video card (nope not telling anyone which one just yet) I'll let you all know how it works.

The upgrade of the Video card and flipping it on it's side, has me thinking about a total redesign of the left side bottom cover, maybe the whole bottom cover still kicking Ideas around.... and I know
:pics:



Soon all will be picture perfect again :)


CrazyBillyBob
:stupid:

[DonT-FeaR]

/\ good to know... nothing worse than looking at empty spaces..

[bennyrux]

Is it just me or if you use this one:

http://www.adexelec.com/pe-flex16.jpg

where the ribbon connects in line with the connector instead of at an angle, then you could mount it to either side.

[crazybillybob]

OK,
The Switch to a new web host is complete! I think I've got all the pics and Links working in this log:D:banana: If you find something broke or missing let me know I'll get it fixed. I've got an update to make, but I need sleepy right now!
Check back another time ;)


CrazyBillyBob

[bennyrux]

OK,
The Switch to a new web host is complete! I think I've got all the pics and Links working in this log:D:banana: If you find something broke or missing let me know I'll get it fixed. I've got an update to make, but I need sleepy right now!
Check back another time ;)


CrazyBillyBob

He must have been really sleepy ;)

[crazybillybob]

Sorry Benny,
I've been stuck in meetings this week at work till like 8-10PMcst each day... Hopefully I'll get time to update the log this weekend.

Thanks for keeping an eye on the log :up: :D more is coming!


CrazyBillyBob

[bennyrux]

It's no problem! I understand how life goes, but just wanted to let you to know we're looking forward to seeing your progress :D

[crazybillybob]

Happy New Year,

You all thought I was gone :)

Nope just busy. See my Wife bought me this nice gift for Christmas, and I had to work it into this build.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/GPU_ram_pci_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/GPU_ram_pci_big.JPG)

That's right Kiddos 4Gb more Ram and an ATI 4870X2....

The only way to mount this bad boy is on it's side. For that to happen I need to create a frame to support this 2 1/4 pound monster. So a quick trip to the big box lumber store for some Aluminum L bar.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Alum_ang_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Alum_ang_big.JPG)

Fast forward through the measuring, cutting, drilling and filing to the first test fit.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Gpu_INCOMP_mounted_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Gpu_INCOMP_mounted_big.JPG)

The mounting point from the Frame to the Back corner of the case gave me the most trouble....but with a bit of thinking I came up with this:

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/GPU_frameangle_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/GPU_frameangle_big.JPG)

Here's the finished Frame without the card.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/GPU_frameComplete_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/GPU_frameComplete_big.JPG)

So what do you think? nice, OK, not bad?

Oh your wanting to see the finished product?

OK :)
Here's the card mounted in the case....
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Gpu_mounted01_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Gpu_mounted01_big.JPG)

To be honest this card has been a distraction... I've been playing a bit too much COD W@W on it and not finished the cover... That's next on the list if I can put the mouse down long enough;)


(oh and that makes 8GB of Ram... all of it usable under XP x64 )

[bennyrux]

Nice upgrade! Thanks for the update.

Out of curiosity, how much does your luggable weigh?

[crazybillybob]

benny,
I'm not sure how much it weighs at this point.
It's way lighter then my old tower case but 2+ times heavier then my laptop. I'd guess 25 to 35 lbs... I'll have it some where that has a scale next weekend so I'll weigh it and give a exact answer after that.

CBB

[msmrx57]

Love this thing. I personally don't need to have a portable system, but some great ideas for a space saving system. I've got a few crazy ideas bouncing around my head.:eek: +rep for creativity8)

[crazybillybob]

Hi all I'm still at it, had a few things come up over the last few months, I got most of them cleared up... So the Mod moves on!

So with the new Video card installed it was on to the new cover...

Instead of the two part cover that I had before, this time I'm going with a one piece. Still using the expanded PVC board that I used before.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/new_Cover_white_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/new_Cover_white_big.JPG)

Here's the new cover with all the needed fan holes, ports, etc cut.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/new_Cover_testfit_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/new_Cover_testfit_big.JPG)

Now everything is test fit to the cover (fans, ports, etc) and the cover is test fitted to the case.


http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/new_Cover_wireharness_testfit_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/new_Cover_wireharness_testfit_big.JPG)

With the optical drive outside the case, the power and data cables make things look messy. So I combined them into a nice looking wire bundle.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Veris_box_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Veris_box_big.JPG)

Last Fall at Showdown L.A.N. I saw a neat little device in the Antec booth. It is a device that fits into a 3 1/2" bay that allows remote control of some multimedia programs, as well as powering up the system. It's called Multimedia Station Basic it's designed for use in home theater pc's.
The list price of this model is $39.99 I've seen them at Best Buy for less, but was able to pick one up at Micro Center for $19.99 just before Christmas 2008. The unit contains the bay mounted receiver, a remote, a power harness interface, and a cd with the drivers / software.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/Veris_Cont_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Veris_Cont_thm.JPG)

The bay mount is all well and good for HTPC, or your "normal" rigs around here, but for this one.... It's going in the parts bin.


http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/IR_Board_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/IR_Board_big.JPG)

A few screws later and the board is free. The actual IR Receiver is the black square with 3 legs and a bump on the left side of the board. All the way to the left is an ultra bright blue power LED. The power switch ties into this board, then goes to the motherboard, the software interface is through a usb connection.


http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/IR_mount_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/IR_mount_big.JPG)

To get the receiver to a high place to get the best signal I mounted it along side the monitor. To do this I made a custom mount for the unit. (note the black circle on the right side in it is a tiny drill hole, this is for the blue power LED... so it's not so bright that it blinds you when using the monitor).

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/IR_mount_Mirror_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/IR_mount_Mirror_big.JPG)

The stock bay mount had a mirror over the receiver hole, I pop it off and reused it on my mount to give it a nice clean look.


http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/IR_mounted_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/IR_mounted_big.JPG)

Here's a look at the board mounted in place (from the back).


http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/IR_drill_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/IR_drill_big.JPG)

Here it is again from the front, the paint needs touched up yet.
With that done, now it's back to the cover.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/new_Cover_painted_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/new_Cover_painted_big.JPG)

The cover got a couple coats of primer, paint, and clear.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/new_Cover_fanmesh_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/new_Cover_fanmesh_big.JPG)

Now the fan mesh is in place.


What do you think?
I'm thinking about painting some graphics on the cover to go along with the "Pack-n-Play" theme.... but I'm not sure what I should put on it... Ideas are requested :)

Next time we'll look at the cover installed and the remote repainted.

As always let me know what you think!!

CrazyBillyBob

[DonT-FeaR]

wow thats a really nice fit .. gw

[Remy]

Hi all,
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/fade_breadboard_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/fade_breadboard_big.JPG)
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/fade_PCB1_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/fade_PCB1_big.JPG)
It took about 8-9 tries to get this but it looks ok so I stuffed it full of parts.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/fade_PCB1_pop_thm.jpg (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/fade_PCB1_pop_big.JPG)
CrazyBillyBob

Hey CBB, I love this mod; it's fantastic! I'm actually trying to do something similar on my mod with LEDs. I was wondering if you have a schematic for your PCB I quoted above? I have my schematic completed, I just want to see if I'm far off from a successful result.

Keep up the good work and +rep

Remy

[tomcatt]

nice ! - first time I see this mod - looks very good ;)

[crazybillybob]

Remy,

The Board you see in the pic actually has multiple separate circuits on it, and there are some errors in the board, I seem to have missed a few traces when drawing this board and managed to "dead short" a few pads... needless to say many a brave transistor died in my attempts to salvage this PCB, I've scrapped the one pictured and still have to redesign a new board with only 1 copper side, the double sided board it really hard to make at home with out using a photo etch technique. That's why you always make a alpha board before paying to have many made... better 1 coaster then 100, and send out for multi-layer boards ;)
I'm guessing that your looking at the LED fader aspect of the board... yes I have the schematic for it.. and would be happy to share them. I've actually made a night light using the circuit. It's driving 2 ultra bright LEDs of Red,Yellow, Blue and Green the colors happily fade in and out. I've got it sitting on a dresser and it lights up a 5 or 6 foot area on the ceiling. Helps everyone see in the dark and is very "soothing" :) I just reloaded my laptop's OS so give me a day or three to get my files moved back over and then I'll get the fader schematic up here ( my laptop is the machine I do most of my design work on because it's with me in the hotel, or on the plane).
The Other part of the board was interfacing the HDD activity light into a "Slow fade" circuit It used some optical relays to separate the motherboard HDD activity signal and the Slow Fade circuit (the optical relay is the white IC on the PCB pictured) I could have done it with out the relay, but if something went wrong in the fader (ie, a shorted LED, or transistor) it could kill the motherboard... the $.75 relay is way cheaper then a $175 Motherboard (the motherboard I used in this mod...way less then $175 :) even then the relay is cheaper!). That schematic is around here somewhere but I'm not sure I ever put it on the PC. It was based solely on the parts that I had on hand so it would be harder to duplicate (I think the relay I used has been discontinued) If that the piece of this you'd been hopping to see I'll through it into eagle cad and get it up for you (It was the only part of the board that worked perfectly the first time :) ). I hope this helps, and if you've got any q's let me know I'll be happy to help you... this stuff is fun for me :)

I wanted to fit the Crystals and the LED fader into this mod, but with the new Video card I just can't do it... no room. I may have another Idea to be able to still use the LED Fader I've just gotta do some thinking and I need Ideas for graphics for this cover.

Guys should I paint some graphics on the cover ? or leave it plan gray?
If Graphics what? Farm animals, flowers, bananas :banana: , what ???

CBB

[crazybillybob]

The "Secret" Pack-n-Play Light board Schematics. It has both the Quad LED fader and the Hdd Slow fade circuit on it.

http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/PacknplayLightsSCH_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/PacknplayLightsSCH_big.JPG)

You'll note that all the "LEDS" are two post connectors, That's because I made this modular so that it was easy to disconnect everything. The Posts have the negative side marked with "-".

The Slow fade is a simple circuit, when the relay turns on it starts to charge C1 and turns the Base of Q1 on which Makes the UV LED light. Now when the Relay shuts off C1 tries to keep the Base On Q1 on, but the voltage slowly drops this causes the UV LED slowly get dimmer (takes about 1/4-1/2 sec to fade completely).

Now the LED Fader I found only needs 2 op-amps.. The LM324 has 4 op-amps in one package. So I just double the circuit to give me 4 outputs. 4 outputs doesn't mean that you can only have 4 LEDS. The Transistors can handle 200mA each most Super.Ultra Bright LEDs use up to 30mA each. So 200/30= 6.667 So you should be able to run up to 6 LEDs on each output... That means you can run allot of LEDs on this :) When you first power up the circuit both sets of outputs are in sync, after a coupe of minutes, the two set start to get out of sync. This is do to slight differences in the values of resistors and capacitors (there marked the same but have up to 5% differences) and those values change with temperature... Whats this mean well it means that there is almost always a set of LEDs on.. and I think the slight rotation in timing gives it a cool "random" feel.

If anyone wants the schematics and/or the board layout for Eagle cad let me know I'll send it to you. Just remember that this board as never been tested (I went back and looked, seems I totally redid the board drawing after the last one failed and didn't remember doing it.. so I need to etch one and test it yet.. This time it's a single sided board way easier to make). As always If there's any questions let me know I'll do my best to answer them :)

CBB

[Remy]

Hey thanks for the schematic CBB! It looks quite similar to the one I'm using (actually found it in a thread here on TBCS, but don't remember where); only a whole hell of alot less complex. The one thing I am not completely confident on is which post of the transistor connects to where. Is the middle post 'Base' and connect to power? In the schematic drawing of the transistor, is the post with the arrow the collector or the emitter?

Remy

[DonT-FeaR]

ok..
oh the far left of that pic /\ up there... the emitter would be the side with Q1 if i am not mistaken

[darthperil]

Thats some awesome work CBB, I like your creative engineering. I have never made a PCB, but watched one being made and after three attempts it worked, the slightest thing out of place and it is a coaster. I can't wait to see the finished mod.

[crazybillybob]

Here's a link for some basic Transistor info (pics too!) Transistor Basics (http://www.technologystudent.com/elec1/transis1.htm)

The Arrow is the emitter. The Emitter should be tied to the load because it "Emmit's" power. The Collector should be tied to the voltage source because it "Collects" Power. The base should be tied to the control voltage because the amount of power flowing from the Collector to the emitter is "based" on it.

Now weather the voltage source at the Collecter is + or - is defined by weather the transistor is a NPN or PNP (the emitter arrow always points to GND) so NPN the collector is + and PNP the Collector is -.

I hope this helps clear things up a little...

Post a link to your Schematics... I'd love to compare them to mine, odds are that mine is just 2 of yours :) as this oscillation circuit is pretty standard. I just modified it to fit the parts I had on hand.



I've got some pics of the Pack-n-Play with the new cover on, I just need to up load them.... Yes I'm teasing you, you'll have to check back later to see them :)



CBB

[Remy]

Again, this schematic was taken from another thread here (http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=11582) on TBCS. I am not taking credit for it's creation. I modified it to fit onto the smallest PCB I thought possible. The red lines indicate the top layer, and the gray lines indicate the bottom layer. With exception to the project's name and mine no text will be printed.

http://my-pc-nerd.com/mod/My_mod/electronics/schematic.jpg

[crazybillybob]

Remy,

Your circuit is the same as mine... the LM358 only has 2 op-amps in the package. Unless you know someone with the equipment to photo-etch your PCB or your going to have it made by a PCB company... You may want to look at making it a one sided PCB..(that it all the copper on the bottom). They are way easier to make and solder that way.

Either way you should be on the right track, good luck!

CBB

[madd0ct0r]

Can you not make two one sided PCB's and glue them back to back?
admittedly, you'd have an extra thick pcb as a result, but it'd be easier to line up.

[crazybillybob]

Lining up the holes is the easy part. The hard part with homemade double sided PCB's are that you don't have "Via's" (a via is a copper plated hole trough the PCB), what it does is transfer the heat/solder from the rear pad to the front pad when soldering.... So on homemade PCBs you have to solder them front and back.... This is where you run into issues, you double the chances for solder bridges, cooking a component, or a trace with no connection. making a double sided PCB at home is doable... I've done it many times, it's just rough for someone that's new to electronics, and if you don't understand how to trouble shoot the design it is close to impossible. Heck they drive me nuts :) I try to stay single sided if I know I'm only doing a one off home job.

But yes, you could make two single side boards and glue them together..but you'll have other issues to work past.


CBB

[Remy]

CBB, Did you happen to see any issues with the schematic I have created, other then trying to make it 2 sided? Also, can you suggest a company to make the PCB? I've already purchased the copper clad and the etching chemical, but I'd like to price out getting this done professionally to see which is cheaper. I don't see myself making many other PCBs after this one... Thanks Again for your assistance, and I don't mean to hijack your thread.

Remy

[crazybillybob]

Remy,

No worries about the Hi-jack... it's informative!
The Cheapest PCB co that I know of is Batch PCB (http://www.batchpcb.com/) It's a spin off of SparkFun Electronics. 2 layer PCBs cost $2.50 a sq inch and a $10 setup fee. They are not always the fastest company, because they wait till they get a full panel before they make them (this is why their so cheap).
The minimum is 1 Sq inch.

Good Luck!
CBB

[crazybillybob]

So what have I been doing??? for the last few weeks?

Well, Remy's questions got me thinking about the lighting control board again...
So I built one of the new design.... Good news the new design works great!

I also upgraded my PCB fab to photo etching, by creating a UV LED array for exposing the boards. (I'm going to go in depth with this process soon with a tut on it!!! much nicer boards and it's easy and cheaper to do now that you don't need special expensive lights...more on that later)

Here's the board bottom (the white jumper wire is there because I accidentally cut one of the traces when I was using a razor to clean off the resin from the soldier).


http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/PNP_Lighting_pcb_bottom_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/PNP_Lighting_pcb_bottom_big.JPG)

On the top you notice some copper traces, I used some copper tape for these, it's much neater then wires everywhere.
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/PNP_Lighting_pcb_top_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/PNP_Lighting_pcb_top_big.JPG)


Also I wanted to share with you all what you've been waiting for... The full PacknPlay cover in place. It's not complete yet I'm testing some new lighting effects, Once I know how they look and I get them installed it will be done!
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/finsihed_Cover_installed_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/finsihed_Cover_installed_big.JPG)


And the whole thing:
http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/Thumbs/PNP_Finished_Cover_thm.JPG (http://www.dogh2omods.com/LanImages/PacknPlay/PNP_Finished_Cover_big.JPG)


So Soon I'll have the lighting tested, I'll share that as we go. My goal is to have this PackNPlay complete by early June, which is when I move to Phoenix , AZ... prepping for the move will be taking more and more of my time so this will be a challenge! But it's time for this project to be completed :)

As always let me know what you all think!

CrazyBillyBob